Thanks largely to the New Age movement, awareness of alternative religions is at an all-time high. Our experts help you distinguish fact from fiction regarding a diverse variety of alternative religions.
Often denounced as evil cults or superstitious nonsense, these beliefs are actually remnants of some of the world's oldest religions and should not be so readily dismissed. Even if you do not plan to engage in any of the religions or practices described here, knowing something about them can help you learn to distinguish fact from fiction, increase your religious tolerance, and reduce misunderstandings.
The New Age movement, which began in the Victorian era as a non-religious British study group called Theosophy, offers radical re-interpretation of Hindu and Buddhist thought combined with Gnostic Christianity and modern American Spiritualism. Other movements are reconstructionist attempts to revive and continue major religions of the pre-Christian era such as a belief in the Greek or Egyptian gods. Many of the articles here are influenced by New Age thought and touch upon a number of these ancient beliefs. We also include several articles on Wicca, which is possibly one of the most misunderstood religions of all time.
Our experts provide introductions to these religions and movements, along with popular practices in folk spirituality. You'll find helpful articles on the correct use of amulets and talismans, meditation, and the interpretation of dreams. You can read an introduction to shamanism and even how to put your hair in dreadlocks like the Rastafarians, who believe this distinctive hairstyle links the wearer directly with God. Venturing a bit further afield, we discuss verifying paranormal phenomena, the development of psychic abilities, and how to track conflicts between ethnic groups. Personal approaches to basic elements of Christian faith, such as the concept of grace, are also discussed. We also have articles on atheism, agnosticism, and positive thinking. If you're interested in any aspect of alternative religions, our site will help you gain experience and expand your knowledge base.
