Heathenism

 

A resurgence of interest in the ancient nature religions has led some to embrace a heathen system of belief.  Like the terms pagan or Christian, “heathen” is a broad term whose advocates adhere to a wide variety of beliefs.  Heathen values based on the web of wyrd and fridh are highly principled and ethical.  The world would be a better place if all lived their lives in accordance with these standards of conduct.

However, heathenism also contains certain errors that limit its followers from obtaining true advancement.  Following is a partial list of the errors contained within heathenism:

• Heathens are polytheistic, worshipping a wide array of gods and goddesses.  The Creator of all has clearly stated that He alone is to be worshipped: “Thou shalt have no other gods before Me.”  (Exodus 20:3)

  “I am Yahuwah, and there is no other;
apart from me there is no god [Deity].”  (Isaiah 45:5)

• Many Heathens believe that the soul is not a single entity but is, instead, a composite of disparate parts.  The Creator who is the originator of every human soul has explained what constitutes a soul: it is a physical body (Lik) in which is the breath of life (Ond) from Yah.  Period. The Hame (imagination), Mod (incarnated being containing emotions) and Wod (inspiration) are not separate entities.

  “And Yahuwah Elohim formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul.”  (Genesis 2:7)

• Many Heathens believe in a form of reincarnation where a soul is reincarnated back within the same kinship or family lineage.  However, the Giver of Life has decreed that only one life has been granted to all before their souls are judged.

  “And as it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment, so [Yahushua] was offered once to bear the sins of many. To those who eagerly wait for Him He will appear a second time, apart from sin, for salvation.”  (Hebrews 9:27-28, NKJV)

• Ancestor worship is a part of many heathen practices, either their own predecessors or others whose lives have been an inspiration.  While it is well to emulate the good example of those who have inspired by their courage, kindness or some other positive character quality, worship belongs to the Creator alone.

  Then I saw another angel flying in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach to those who dwell on the earth—to every nation, tribe, tongue, and people— saying with a loud voice, “Fear El and give glory to Him, for the hour of His judgment has come; and worship Him who made heaven and earth, the sea and springs of water.”  (Revelation 14:6-7)

• Heathens believe that, upon death, they will join their personal deity in his or her “hall.”  “A far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory” (see 2 Corinthians 4:17-18) awaits all who embrace the truths of Heaven. “Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into the heart of man the things which Yahuwah has prepared for those who love Him.”  (1 Corinthians 2:9)

The heathen goals of life: personal responsibility and making a positive difference in the individual, the family and the community, are laudable goals.  The Creator of all invites heathens to step into a fuller understanding of truth and learn of Him.  The secret to fulfilling their deepest desires can be found only in following all truth.