Other Traditions & ReligionsThere are over 22 recognized religions that each have more than 500,000 members in the United States*. In the pagan community there are many religions and traditions; 18 alone listed in Raymond Buckland's "Complete Art of Witchcraft", appendix A. Traditions are subdivisions of a religion; such as Gardnerian, Alexandrian and Dianic are all subdivisions of Wicca, and Baptist, Catholic and Mormonism are all subdivisions of Christianity.
Why learn about other traditions? Understanding what other traditions teach will help us be more aware of the diversity of the pagan community. With knowledge we can make well-informed decisions to participate in rituals lead by those of other traditions if we are invited and are comfortable participating. It also opens doors for us to more clearly communicate and exchange knowledge to improve our own practices and benefit others. Why learn about other religions? Understanding what other religions teach, and specifically what they teach about witchcraft, is important so we can intelligently interact with others. Knowing what Hindus, Buddhists, Christians, Jews and others believe will help you understand the viewpoints of others. Such understanding leads to more open dialogue and cooperation; with the alternative being ignorance that leads to rumors, mistrust and hatred. *According to http://www.adherents.com/Religions_By_Adherents.html
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