Frequently Asked Questions
Hellenism, Hellenic polytheism or Hellenic paganism?
Let’s get one thing straight first. Your blood and heritage has nothing to do with the terminology you can use. The common rumour that only Greeks can call themselves Hellenist is incorrect. Even in ancient times the Gods were worshipped from Britain to Africa. Binding your faith to temporary borders and gatekeeping practices is against all that Hellenism stands for.
Hellenism is the term that Emperor Julian used to refer to the religion focused around the worship of the Hellenic Gods. However, in modern times, people like to use Hellenic polytheism more. Both are equal. This religion is focuses around certain rules (Xenia,… we’ll discuss those later).
However, the Gods can be worshipped without binding yourself to one specific religion and its rules. This is Hellenic paganism. Pagans usually worship from multiple pantheons, and hereby don’t follow one specific religion. They sometimes combine their practices with witchcraft.
"Do I need to pray everyday?"
No. A lot of worshippers take some time off. We all go through troubled times and worship may not be your focus for some time. This is normal and something the Gods understand.
"Can I participate in non-Hellenic practices?"
Yes. Many of us have to participate in modern religious practices to maintain appearances to our friends and family who often practice another religion. Even beyond this, many in ancient times, and in the modern day adopt practices and deities from outside the Hellenic Pantheon into their religious practice.
"Do I need an altar or shrine?"
No. Most practitioners do eventually make one, but they are not necessary. If you want to offer to a deity without an altar, you can do this in a place that feels sacred to them.
"How do I make an altar?"
Your altar is the place where you make your connection to the Gods. This space can be as personal as you want. Ideally you can have a lit flame to burn incense, and some vessel to make libations.
"Can I dismantle my altar/shrine?
Yes, it is often necessary to dismatle an altar, whether it needs to be moved or hidden. The Gods understand you circumstances.
"How do I make an offering?"
The most typical offering is a libation. These are most typically wine or water, but they can also be varied drinks. Libations can be poured onto the ground, into a fire, or disposed of down your drain. Food, likewise, can be offered by burning, burying, or being left on your altar. Incense is often given as an offering, and is burnt.
"How do i dispose of (perishable) offerings?
You don't have to burn offerings. It is fine to dispose of offerings by binning, burying or eating it yourself if it is still edible. Offerings to Chthonic deities are generally speaking not to be eaten. Eating their offerings can attract Chthonic spirits into your life. Please be mindful of local wildlife when you leave offerings outside.
"How do I communicate with the Gods?"
In ancient times, few people attempted to communicate with the gods. If they did, they did via trained experts who used techniques such as astrology, interpretation of entrails from sacred animals, or the actions of sacred animals. Techniques such as candle, pendulum and keyboard divination are modern inventions and should be approached with skepticism and caution if you wish to incorporate them into your practice.
"I received a message from the Gods/ I think i witnessed a sign. What does it mean?"
That is a question you alone can answer. Many people do not receive signs in all of their practice and one should not expect to find them. If you do receive a sign it should be obvious to you that it was a sign.
"Is this God mad at me?"
Typically no. Only the worst actions (major miasma, like cannibalism or patricide) consistently can make the Gods undertake wrath. If you partook in bad actions, ask the Gods for forgiveness, and live your life with virtue to earn the Gods forgiveness.
"How do I decide which Gods to worship?"
This is something you decide for yourself. Worship the Gods you feel connected to.