Definition

Verb: 1. To make something pagan in character or nature: To cause something (such as a religion, practice, or belief system) to adopt or incorporate the qualities, rituals, or doctrines associated with paganism. 2. To convert to paganism: To cause someone to adopt pagan beliefs or practices.

Usage and Examples

• To make something pagan in character:
  • Some historians argue that certain festivals were paganized over time, blending with local traditions.
  • The ancient ritual was paganized when it incorporated nature worship.
• To convert to paganism:
  • The invading tribe sought to paganize the conquered people.
  • Missionaries were concerned that the isolated community would paganize.

Advanced Usage

• "to paganize a concept": To reinterpret or adapt a concept so it aligns with pagan principles.
  • The philosopher attempted to paganize the idea of the soul, linking it to natural spirits.
• Used in historical or religious critique: Often used in academic or theological contexts to describe a perceived corruption or syncretism of a monotheistic or orthodox tradition.
  • The scholar's thesis is that early symbols were paganized by later cultural influences.

Variants and Related Words

• Paganization (noun): The process or act of making something pagan.
  • The paganization of the holiday is a topic of debate.
• Paganise (verb): British English spelling variant of 'paganize'.
• Repaganize (verb): To make pagan again after a period of not being pagan.
• Pagan (noun/adjective): A person holding religious beliefs other than those of the main world religions; relating to paganism.
• Paganism (noun): A religion other than one of the main world religions, typically a nature-centered or polytheistic faith.

Synonyms

• Heathenize: To make heathen or pagan. (More archaic)
• Profane: To treat (something sacred) with irreverence or disrespect, which can be a related concept in some contexts.
• Secularize: To make something secular or non-religious. (Note: This is different but can be a parallel process of removing orthodox religious character.)

Antonyms

• Christianize: To convert to Christianity.
• Convert: To change one's religious faith, often to a mainstream religion.
• Sanctify: To set apart as or declare holy.

Related Phrases and Contexts

• "to paganize a tradition": This phrase is commonly used in anthropology and religious studies to describe how a previously non-pagan tradition absorbs pagan elements.
• Used in contrast with "purify" or "reform": In religious history, movements often sought to de-paganize or purify practices that were seen as having been paganized.

Verb

1. make pagan in character
   • The Church paganized Christianity