The
re-constructionist perspective is one which seeks to re-discover the
traditions of our ancestors and apply them to our lives today. It is 're-constructionist' in that many of the traditions were lost through
successive materialistic and spiritual invasions and the traditions may no
longer be obvious to the untrained eye. Hence we attempt to re-construct
the original from the surviving fragments as best we can.
Contrary to the opinions of some people, you will not find a
re-constructionist pagan walking down the street in a cloak or carrying a
sword (odd looks and Mr. Plod aside). You may however find them carrying
an amulet based on an archaeological find, or a piece of jewellery based
on ancient symbolism. This is because the symbol has had significant
meaning from the period they are drawn to, and the sub-conscious
significance remains. The amulet can bring a tangible feeling of
connection to the ancestors within it's spiritual context. The
Catholics' crucifix has little difference to the pagans' sun wheel
necklace in this respect.
The re-constructionist is often by definition more knowledgeable on
historical matters. This is a necessity for understanding the subject to
allow the re-construction. Because of this there is no 'blind faith'
present. The questioning nature of re-constructionism requires that
nothing is simply accepted if it is presented as fact. However this does
not mean that people deny the value of individual spiritual experience,
far from it. It is individual inspiration that often bridges the gap in
understanding and re-creates the pattern anew for today. We build on the
surviving foundations of the past to create the framework we ourselves
operate in.
The re-constructionist perspective is not anachronistic.
The re-constructionsit approach is looking at how to take our
tradition forward, but basing itself in the traditions handed down to us.
The answers are not found in the writings of modern day authors and pagan
celebrities, they are found in the legacy of the ancestors themselves.
Re-constructionism, also known as, 'Why re-invent the (sun) wheel?'
by
Little
Raven
Do you have thoughts on
re-constructionism? Comment here.
