Glossary of Special Terms
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Author's Disclaimer: I reserve "the right to be wrong". And this document can only hope to be a fly-over of the landscape of Hellenismos. Eclecticism: "Selecting or employing individual elements from a variety of sources, systems, or styles" is a general definition. Compare with "syncretism". Hellenion: Official Statement: "a US-based religious organization dedicated to the revival and practice of Hellenic polytheism. We approach Hellenic religion from the reconstructionist perspective, which includes both an emphasis on historical precedent and respect for personal spiritual inspiration. We offer local congregations, study opportunities, and fellowship for those who worship the Olympians and the other deities of ancient Greece in a traditional way." Hellenism/os: According to the Hellenismos FAQ at nomos-arkhaios.org, the Roman Emperor Julian used the term "Hellenismos" to refer to "the traditional religion of the Greeks and all those who embraced their religious culture". Orthodoxy: Literally "correct belief", refers to a common tendency among some religions to promote common beliefs. Compare this with the more Hellenistic "orthopraxy". Orthopraxy: Contrasted with "orthodoxy", literally means "correct practice". In the context of Reconstructionism, it generally refers to practicing "in a traditional manner". Polytheism: The worship of and/or belief in more than one god. Reconstructionism: Many religious forms and practices have fallen out of use, often due to the prevalence of competing religions. Reconstructionism makes use of the best research currently available (and often a peer-review process) to restore ancient religion as authentically as reasonably possible. Syncreticism: Contrasted with "eclecticism", refers to the fusion, compromise, or combination of religious elements. |