In this post…
Pagan Mysticism is a spiritual path that emphasizes direct experience and personal growth. One of the core concepts within Pagan mysticism is the understanding of the meaning of the word “spirit.” While often associated with supernatural entities or deities, the concept within Pagan Mysticism is much broader and more inclusive. In fact, it is entirely possible to embrace Pagan Mysticism without believing in any sort of supernatural entity, focusing instead on the original meaning of “spirit” as “breathtaking.”
The Roots of Inspiration in Latin
The word itself has its roots in the Latin word “spiritus,” which translates to “breath.” This connection to breath highlights the life-giving force that animates all living beings. In Pagan Mysticism, this can be understood as the animating force of life, the essence that gives rise to consciousness and experience. It is the energy that flows through all things, connecting us to the natural world and to each other.
This understanding of this type of inspiration allows for a wide range of interpretations and experiences. For some, it may involve connecting with a personal deity or ancestor. For others, it may be about experiencing the awe and wonder of nature, feeling the interconnectedness of all beings, or cultivating a deeper sense of self-awareness.
Inclusive Exploration of Inspiration
Pagan Mysticism encourages us to explore our own unique understanding of inspiration through personal experience and introspection. This may involve practices such as meditation, nature connection through spending time in nature, ritual, and divination. Through these practices, we can cultivate a deeper connection to the animating force of life within ourselves and the world around us.
One of the key aspects of Pagan Mysticism is its emphasis on direct experience. Rather than relying on dogmatic beliefs or external authorities, Pagan mystics encourage people to explore their own inspirational paths through personal experience and introspection. This emphasis on direct experience allows for a wide range of interpretations and experiences with inspiration, making Pagan Mysticism accessible to people of diverse beliefs and backgrounds.
Spirit and Awen
The concept of awen in Druidry beautifully embraces the relationship between spirit and inspiration. The word awen is often translated as “flowing spirit” or “divine inspiration,” representing a mystical force that ignites creativity, wisdom, and insight within us. The awen in Druidry is believed to be a gift from the divine, symbolizing a connection to the inspirational essence of all things. For the purposes of Pagan Mysticism, the divine doesn’t necessarily have to be a supernatural entity. It could be anything from which we draw inspiration and a sense of transcendence. Similarly, the root of the word “spirit” in the original Latin conveys a sense of breathtaking inspiration when connecting with the life-giving force that animates and inspires us.
Together, these concepts intertwine, with awen serving as a channel through which inspiration flows, sparking moments of profound creativity, artistic expression, and inspirational awareness. In this sense, awen is not merely inspiration but a sacred alignment with the universe, where inspiration’s essence infuses human endeavors with purpose and meaning. This relationship highlights how inspiration is both an internal and external phenomenon, drawing from deep within the soul while also connecting to the transcendent realm of spirit to be found in the natural world.
Conclusion
The concept of spirit in Pagan Mysticism is a broad one. It encompasses the animating force of life, the interconnectedness of all beings, and the awe and wonder of the natural world. While some may choose to interpret spirit in terms of supernatural entities or deities, it is entirely possible to embrace Pagan Mysticism without subscribing to any specific belief system. By focusing on the original meaning of “spirit” as “breathtaking,” we can embrace a deeper connection to the life force within ourselves and the world around us.
Share Your Thoughts on Spirit
What’s your understanding of the term “spirit”? How does it inform your practice of Pagan Mysticism? Share your thoughts in the comments below!