Pagan ― Pagan seems a viable umbrella term to designate the Community of Earth-Oriented-Spirituality Traditions but it needs a consensus definition created by Pagans. The term Paganism is used in contemporary times truly but incompletely to refer to nature oriented religions that generally recognize Divinity as immanent within Nature. The dictionary definitions are also not helpful as they tend to define "Pagan" only in terms of what it is not, which is not an adequate type of definition even according to the theories of definition creation.

Pagan Federation ― When used in reference to a MetaPhysical Orientation as to Tradition, Culture or Preferred Flavour, is primarily defined, usually selfdefined by its members and/or adherents holding as a primary or critical parameter of their Spiritual Paradigm. Pagan Federation was founded in 1971 and formerly called the Pagan Front, Pagan Federation is a London-based organization that seeks to provide contact between the Craft of the Wise and 'genuine seekers of the Old Ways', and to promote harmony among the various European Pagan religions. It works with institutions, governmental bodies and the public to present accurate information on Pagan religious views and rights.

Pagan Hebraic Traditions ― When used in reference to a MetaPhysical Orientation as to Tradition, Culture or Preferred Flavour, is primarily defined, usually selfdefined by its members and/or adherents holding as a primary or critical parameter of their Spiritual Paradigm.

Pagan, Occult, Witchcraft Special Interest Group of Mensa ― A special interest group (SIG) of Mensa, the organization for persons scoring in the top two percentile on IQ testing. Only Mensa members can be full members of the SIG but non-Mensans may join as associate members. Their newsletter, Pagana, is considered to be one of the best Pagan journals.

Pagan Way ― When used in reference to a MetaPhysical Orientation as to Tradition, Culture or Preferred Flavour, is primarily defined, usually selfdefined by its members and/or adherents holding as a primary or critical parameter of their Spiritual Paradigm. PAGAN WAY: An organization started as a movement responding to the high demand for applicants to covens in the 1970's. Pagan Way provided an alternative to the traditional intensive screening programs, and year-and-a-day probationary periods with an open, nature-oriented system that emphasized celebration of nature over magick. Although the Pagan Way organization fell apart in the 1980's, the rituals survived. Some covens run Pagan Way groups as training circles for interested persons and potential initiates. Those who aren't initiated into the coven can remain in the Pagan Way group indefinitely, become solitaries, or form their own Pagan Way group.

Paganism ― includes, but is not limited to: IndigenoPaganism (which itself includes: PaleoPaganism and SocioPaganism/CiviloPaganism), MesoPaganism, Neo Paganism and SurvivalPaganism. One of the prime identifying characteristics of virtually all branches of the Paganism Tree is that they can be described as Earth-Centered Spirituality. While amazing diversity is endemic to all Pagan groups, there is a vast body of concepts held in common, again virtually universally. The Sacredness of the Earth, the possibility of direct experience of the Sacred, and the idea that each Individual has their own perfect path, are among the most prevalent. PaleoPaganism(perhaps a type of

Pain of the Obligation ― When the term Pain of the Obligation [in Aleister Crowley's 777 Tables of Correspondences, key number 24] is used in reference to a Mægikal Implement, Sacred Object, Ceremonial Tool and/or Focus it generally refers to

PaleoPaganism(perhaps a type of IndigenoPaganism) - includes the original tribal faiths of the World, whether still known to be practiced as intact belief systems, or not. These religious Traditions were originated by Humanity as its members began to live in tribal groups, developed agriculture, language and first domesticated animals. Examples of this type of PaleoPagan Traditions might include the Australian Aborigine Culture, some Polynesian and Oceanic Traditions and the Dravidian Culture of the Indus valley.

Pali Canon Fundamental Buddhism ― When used in reference to a MetaPhysical Orientation as to Tradition, Culture or Preferred Flavour, is primarily defined, usually selfdefined by it's members and/or adherents as such, and holding the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama Buddha, and/or interpolations thereon as a primary or critical parameter of their Spiritual Paradigm. This Tradition of Buddhism pulls its teachings directly from part of the Pali canon collection (tipitaka), a total of 12,800 pages. These discourses were compiled almost immediately after the Buddha's death by the thousands of monks the Buddha established during his 45-year ministry. They were committed to writing in 29 b.c. they contain the heart of Buddhist teachings and are recognized by all Buddhist scholars as the oldest in existence. Some postulate that there is no monolithic Buddhism as such, but that there are Buddhisms such as Sinhala Buddhism or more precisely Sinhala Theravada Buddhism, Siam or Thai Buddhism, Myanmar or Amarapura Buddhism and so forth. The complete entry on Pali Canon Fundamental Buddhism (also see: the complete entry on Buddhism.)

Pallomancy ― A type of divination using the pendulum, in some cases a form of radiesthesia A general Divinatory System list with short definitions

Palmistry ― A type of divination using the palm of the hand A general Divinatory System list with short definitions

PanClairSynesthesance ― A type of divination by reception of the complete range of sensory impressions (Visual, Audeal, Oloreal, Gustoreal, Tactile and Kinetic ideally, possibly others) outside one's normal range, ordinarily from the future, but also may be from the past or at a distance in the present but not in their normal context, i.e.: smelling, hearing or feeling colours, seeing sounds, and so forth. One of the Gifts or Persuasions that allows an Individual to receive these stimuli outside normal or even extraordinary range. A general Divinatory System list with short definitions

PanClairSynesthesant ― An Individual who possesses the innate talent or has become a practitionor of PanClairSynesthesance. A person who perceives the complete range of sensory impressions (Visual, Audeal, Oloreal, Gustoreal, Tactile and Kinetic ideally, possibly others) and in some cases blended sensations of nonlocal events, in time and/or space.

PanClairSynesthesia ― One of the Gifts or Persuasions that allows an Individual to perceive the complete range of sensory impressions (Visual, Audeal, Oloreal, Gustoreal, Tactile and Kinetic ideally, possibly others) through direct knowledge rather than through the normal sight, hearing, smell, taste or touch receptors while blending or substituting one or more of the types of sensation for others.

PanenTheism ― A MetaPhysical Orientation toward the Divine, that considers the Totality of Everything to constitute the Divine Force, but with the further stipulation that when considered in combination there is an ineffable "other" ingredient which exists only because of the combination and not separately in the component parts.

PanEsthesiance ―

PanPagan ― When used in reference to a MetaPhysical Orientation as to Tradition, Culture or Preferred Flavour, is primarily defined, usually selfdefined by its members and/or adherents which holds teachings originating in and/or interpolations thereon as a primary or critical parameter of their Spiritual Paradigm.

PanPipes ― When the term PanPipes is used in reference to a Mægikal Implement, Sacred Object, Ceremonial Tool and/or Focus it generally refers to specifically made for general or particular Mægikal Werking, and/or consecrated to the same.

Pantacle ― When the term Pantacle [in Aleister Crowley's 777 Tables of Correspondences (sometimes says Pentacle but may be intended as Pantacle, key number 32bis] is used in reference to a Mægikal Implement, Sacred Object, Ceremonial Tool and/or Focus it generally refers to a practitionor's Ceremonial Pantacle which is usually a Disc with symbols carved or embedded into it used to represent the component of Physical Manifestation, Stability, Protection and Intent in Werkings and to help focus or direct the flow of the Energy created. In most Traditions the Pantacle is considered to generally correspond to Earth Energies. Pantacles differ from Patens in that they usually are based on a Pentagram design (or some other Star type, perhaps different number of points) overall. Pantacles normally are specifically made for general or particular Mægikal Werking, and/or consecrated to the same.

Pantheon ―

Panticle ― When the term Panticle [in Aleister Crowley's 777 Tables of Correspondences (sometimes says Pentacle but may be intended as Pantacle, key number 32bis] is used in reference to a Mægikal Implement, Sacred Object, Ceremonial Tool and/or Focus it generally refers to a practitionor's Ceremonial Panticle which is usually a Disc with symbols carved or embedded into it used to represent the component of Physical Manifestation, Stability, Protection and Intent in Werkings and to help focus or direct the flow of the Energy created. In most Traditions the Pantacle is considered to generally correspond to Earth Energies. Pantacles differ from Patens in that they usually are based on a Pentagram design (or some other Star type, perhaps different number of points) overall. Panticles differ from Pantacles in that they normally are inscribed in a Circle upon the Disc itself. Panticles normally are specifically made for general or particular Mægikal Werking, and/or consecrated to the same.

PanTheism ― A MetaPhysical Orientation toward the Divine, that considers the Totality of Everything to constitute the Divine Force. PANTHEISM: The religious doctrine that all the laws, manifestations and powers in the universe combine to create One Power (God). Pantheism may recognize many gods as aspects of One Greater Being, one God with all things being part of Him/Her, or not identify God as an entity at all but Nature itself. See also: Henotheism, Monotheism, Polytheism.

Pantomancy ― A type of divination using anything and everything, ordinarily used sarcastically from the ancient Greek pantos of everything, genitive of pas all A general Divinatory System list with short definitions

Papyromancy ― A type of divination using Papyrus A general Divinatory System list with short definitions

Papyrus Wand ― When the term Papyrus Wand is used in reference to a Mægikal Implement, Sacred Object, Ceremonial Tool and/or Focus it generally refers to a specifically made for general or particular Mægikal Werking, and/or consecrated to the same.

Paradigm ― A Fundamental Model of Worldwide Consensus Reality. Most frequent reference is to Paradigm Shifts that are major changes in one or more of the elements of the Fundamental Model of Worldwide Consensus Reality. The nature of these Paradigms is such that they may operate on unconscious levels in most persons.

Parallel Realities ―

Paranormal ―

Particularism ― A point of view within the field of Ethical, Value and/or Behavioural Matters, this is a Point of View in which the prime parameter for effectuating a course of action is determined by choosing that which is

Passage ― Garden of Life considers Passage a Pagan Sacrament. In a preliminary description Passage may be an Act and/or Process which consists of to acknowledgment and Celebration of and Individual's transitions from one sentient life-cycle stage into another. True Passage occurs within the Individual, however, a Tradition may Affirm and Certify the Accomplished Fact. The Sacrament of Passage usually includes a specifically designed Celebration or Rite of Passage to acknowledge the Tradition's Affirmation that the Individual has made the transition to the lifecycle stage indicated. The timing of such Celebrations are not determined by physical ages but by the Individuals actual attainment of that stage. Some of the Passages that might be Celebrated are: conception, maturation in the womb, birth, walking, learning to read, prepubescence, pubescence, adolescence, young adulthood, adulthood, peak of adulthood, wisdom, detachment and so forth.
Below please find the wording that Garden of Life uses in it's Articles of Organization to delineate this Sacrament:
an Act, Acts, a Process, Processes and/or Series of Acts and/or Processes which consist of a designed Rite of Passage performed to Acknowledge and Celebrate the transitions in(Field of Life), from one sentient life-cycle stage into another. Such Process is usually performed by a group of Celebrants led by one or more Officiants, but which may be performed by any Member on the Currently Active Membership Role on Her/His own Progeny or Joined Ones if necessary. In the Temple these are not determined by physical ages but by the Individuals actual attainment of that stage. In our Tradition this Process is recommended to be performed at the transitions of to to to to to to to to to .

Passion ―

PataPhysics ―

Paten ― When the term Paten is used in reference to a Mægikal Implement, Sacred Object, Ceremonial Tool and/or Focus it generally refers to a practitionor's Ceremonial Paten which is usually a Disc with symbols carved or embedded into it used to represent the component of Physical Manifestation, Stability, Protection and Intent in Werkings and to help focus or direct the flow of the Energy created. In most Traditions the Paten is considered to generally correspond to Earth Energies. They normally are specifically made for general or particular Mægikal Werking, and/or consecrated to the same.

Path ― Spiritual and/or moral beliefs.

Path of Light ― A term used to identify some traditions where Mægik is never used for destructive purposes. Also known as the Right Hand Path, White Mægik.

Path of Shadows ― A term used to identify some traditions where Mægik is used for destructive purposes. Also known as the Left Hand Path, Black Mægik.

PathConflict ―

Patriarchal Society ―

Patrifocal Society ―

Peace Mission Movement ― Based on the teaching of founder Father Divine, which contains elements of New Thought, asceticism, perfectionism, utopian communalism, and denies existence of race and strictly prohibits discrimination among members. Requires all members to turn over all property and income, severing all ties to everything but the Peace Mission. Room, board, and a small allowance for incidentals are provided in exchange for otherwise unpaid labor in Peace Mission owned businesses or projects. Father Divine did not actually claim to be God, but he fostered the belief in his followers, and required loyalty and obedience from them due only to God. The group claims the biblical prophecies about the coming Jewish Messiah and Christ's second coming were all fulfilled by Father Divine. Father Divine, né George Baker (1878-1965), founder of the Peace Mission Movement, believed by his followers to be God.

Peace Pole ― New Age / occult; poles or obelisks around which people sit in order to practice meditation or visualization of World Peace or other topics important to those meditating.

Peacevision ― Houston, TX Visualization known for the blue and white bumper stickers that read "Visualize World Peace."

Pecti Wita ― When used in reference to a MetaPhysical Orientation as to Tradition, Culture or Preferred Flavour, is primarily defined, usually selfdefined by its members and/or adherents holding as a primary or critical parameter of their Spiritual Paradigm. Pecti Wita is the study and practice of the religion of the Picts, the pre-Celtic inhabitants of northern Scotland. Pecti-Wita is concerned with all aspects of prosperity, growth, abundance, creativity, and healing, and honors the Celtic Deities. The main tools in Pecti-Wita are the Staff and the Athame or Dirk. Pecti-Witans use a "Keek-Stane" which is, in effect, a scrying stone or the equivalent of a crystal ball. Also known as Pictish Witchcraft, Wita. Pecti-Wita-Worshiping and invoking Pan & the Fates exclusively in Pecti-Wita rites. Celebrating only 4 Sabbats throughout the year. They are Samhuinn that according to the Pecti Witan tradition is celebrated on November 11, as the New Year. Next is Feill Fionnain (Yule) on December 22, Bealltainn on May 15, and then Feill Sheathain, or Midsummer on July 5. The Pecti Wita tradition is mostly a solitary one. The Tradition focuses on a Oneness with nature. It stresses the importance of attunement with the earth and all her bounties. The rites are all held outdoors and a balefire acts as the focal point. There is no casting of a circle, nor calling of any quarters, the fire acting as a sort of inner shrine. The focuses of this division of the craft are primarily magickal in nature. The focus is foremost on the practical magickal side and less on the religious ceremonial side. The divine/religious side is the most important part, so Pecti-Wita includes the divine everywhere. There is a bare minimum of tools used in Pecti Wita. The staff is the primary tool. The dirk, or Athame, the mool, which essentially is an earthenware bowl filled with soil. The Quaich (chalice, traditionally a horn or gourd) is also used on occasion. The last piece used by the Witan is the Keek Stane, which is a device made by the Witan for Scrying. All these tools must be cleansed, consecrated and charged before use. Scottish Witchcraft ,as it is also referred as, is very strong on natural remedies and Herbalism. They learn and study Herbs and their medicinal as well as magickal uses. The knowledge of plants and herbs occurring naturally in the world that are edible and safe is a basic "skill" that all Pecti Witans should master. Another important ritual in this tradition is the "survival initiation", or "vision quest". This when a Witan sets out on a 7 day journey into wilderness with nothing but his/her wits and love and reverence for the earth that gave him/her life. This is usually done once and is truly an eye and spirit opening experience. The Witan must make all his/her own shelters, catch and cook all his/her own food, and basically attune him/herself with the earth. Teaching himself/herself respect for all life and the earth by "throwing" him/herself into its arms and trusting that SHE will take care of him/her. Provided the Witan shows the Earth Mother the proper respect and honor SHE deserves, all will be well. The ancient Picts of Scotland also had their own runic alphabet as well as their own method of writing known as Swirl. In Pecti-Wita Yule falls on December 22nd and is called Feill Fionnain. In the Caledonii Tradition Yule is called Alban Arthan and is not considered a fire festival. Ostara: Spring (Vernal) Equinox (March 21st ) In the Caledonii Tradition this holiday is known as Alban Eiler and represents the warrior aspect of the God. This Sabbat occurs in mid-March when night and day are of equal length. It is a celebration of balance - not really Winter but not yet Spring. Summer Solstice (June 21st )Also known as Midsummer Night's Celebration, though the two do not always coincide on the astrological calendar. Pecti-Wita celebrates Feill-Sheathain on July 5th , the Caledonii Tradition hails in Alban Hefin, celebrating the kingly aspect of the God.

Pedomancy ― A type of divination by examining the soles of the feet and the lines on the soles of the feet A general Divinatory System list with short definitions

Pegomancy ― A type of divination using a sacred pool, fountain or spring, particularly by the bubbles, a form of hydromancy A general Divinatory System list with short definitions

Pelagianism ― When used in reference to a MetaPhysical Orientation as to Tradition, Culture or Preferred Flavour, is primarily defined, usually selfdefined by its members and/or adherents holding the Teachings of Pelagius, marked by the rejection of the concept of "original sin", and the assertion that each Individual possesses Free Will including the self-Initiatory ability to attain enlightenment and possibly apotheosis, separate from any need for outside intervention by any deity and/or intermediaries, as a primary or critical parameter of their Spiritual Paradigm..

Pelasgian ― about 4,000 b.c. the Greeks were at the same stage as the earliest Egyptian and Near Eastern cities: farming culture, simple citadels, Navajo style pottery, mother goddess figurines this culture (4,000-2,000 b.c.) the classical Greeks called "Pelasgian" (its language, full of words ending in -inthos and -issos, like Cor-inth and labyr-inth and Nark-issos, lasted till c. 400 b.c. but nobody bothered to write it down or study it) They identified the ancient "Pelasgians" as pastoral and simple, compared to their own warrior and hero culture the mythology of the Pelasgians (Argos, home of the first men; Zeus of Dodona, Hera of Argos, Narcissos and Hyacinthos)

Pelasgian Creation Myth ―

Pentacle ― When the term Pentacle [in Aleister Crowley's 777 Tables of Correspondences (sometimes says Pentacle but may be intended as Pantacle, key number 32bis] is used in reference to a Mægikal Implement, Sacred Object, Ceremonial Tool and/or Focus it generally refers to a practitionor's Ceremonial Pentacle which is usually a Disc with symbols carved or embedded into it, contains a representation of either a Pentagram or a Pentagon and is used to represent the component of Physical Manifestation, Stability, Protection and Intent in Werkings and to help focus or direct the flow of the Energy created. In most Traditions the Pentacle is considered to generally correspond to Earth Energies. There is much discussion within the Pagan community as to the differences if any between a Pentagram and a Pentacle, however the bulk of the support seems to be that a Pentagram is the star shape that can be drawn unicursally, with a single line, whereas the Pentacle is the same symbol enclosed in a Circle.

Pentagram ― When the term Pentagram is used in reference to a Mægikal Implement, Sacred Object, Ceremonial Tool and/or Focus it generally refers to a star shape that can be drawn unicursally, with a single line, hence it is sometimes called the Endless Knot. One of the most complete explanations was found at: http://www.strega.org/pent.html though that site does not appear to be still extant. We quote it in full below: The pentagram has long been associated with mystery and magic. It is the simplest form of star shape that can be drawn unicursally, with a single line, hence it is sometimes called the Endless Knot. Other names are the Goblin Cross, the Pentalpha, the Witch Foot, the Devils Star and the Seal of Solomon (more correctly attributed to the hexagram).

It has long been believed to be a potent protection against evil and demons, hence a symbol of safety, and was sometimes worn as an amulet for happy homecoming. The old folk-song : Green Grow the Rushes, O! refers to the use of the pentagram above doors and windows in the line: Five is the symbol at your door.

The potency and associations of the pentagram have evolved throughout history. Today it is an ubiquitous symbol of Neo-Pagans with much depth of magical and symbolic meaning.

The pentagram symbol today is ascribed many meanings and deep significance, though much of this is very recent. However, it has been used throughout history and in many contexts.

The earliest known use of the pentagram dates back to around the Uruk period around 3500 BC at Ur of the Chaldees in Ancient Mesopotamia where it was found on potsherds together with other signs of the period associated with the earliest known developments of written language. In later periods of Mesopotamian art, the pentagram was used in royal inscriptions and was symbolic of imperial power extending out to the four corners of the world. Amongst the Hebrews, the symbol was ascribed to Truth and to the five books of the Pentateuch. It is sometimes, incorrectly, called the Seal of Solomon (see Hexagram) though its usage was in parallel with the hexagram. In Ancient Greece, it was called the Pentalpha, being geometrically composed of five A's. Unlike earlier civilizations, the Greeks did not generally attribute other symbolic meanings to the letters of their alphabet, but certain symbols became connected with Greek letter shapes or positions (e.g. Gammadion, Alpha-Omega). The geometry of the pentagram and its metaphysical associations were explored by the Pythagoreans (after Pythagoras 586-506BC) who considered it an emblem of perfection. Together with other discovered knowledge of geometric figures and proportion, it passed down into post-Hellenic art where the golden proportion may be seen in the designs of some temples.

Early Christians attributed the pentagram to the Five Wounds of Christ and from then until medieval times, it was a lesser-used Christian symbol. Prior to the time of the Inquisition, there were no evil associations to the pentagram. Rather its form implied Truth, Religious Mysticism and the work of The Creator. The Emperor Constantine I who, after gaining the help of the Christian church in his military and religious takeover of the Roman Empire in 312 AD, used the pentagram, together with the chi-rho symbol (a symbolic form of cross) in his seal and amulet.

However, it was the cross (a symbol of suffering) rather than the pentagram (a symbol of truth) that was used as a symbol by the Church which subsequently came to power and who's manifest destiny was to usurp the supreme power of the Roman Empire.

The annual church feast of Epiphany, celebrating the visit of the three Magi to the infant Jesus as well as the Church's mission to bring truth to the Gentiles had as its symbol the pentagram, (although in present times the symbol has been changed to a five-pointed star in reaction to the Neo-Pagan use of the pentagram).

In the legend of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, the pentagram was Sir Gawain's glyph, inscribed in gold on his shield, symbolizing the five knightly virtues - generosity, courtesy, chastity, chivalry and piety.

In Medieval times, the Endless Knot was a symbol of Truth and was a protection against demons. It was used as an amulet of personal protection and to guard windows and doors. The pentagram with one point upwards symbolized summer; with two points upwards, it was a sign for winter. During the long period of the Inquisition, there was much promulgation of lies and accusations in the interests of orthodoxy and elimination of heresy. The Church lapsed into a long period of the very diabolism it sought to oppose. The pentagram was seen to symbolize a Goats Head or the Devil in the form of Baphomet and it was Baphomet whom the Inquisition accused the Templars of worshipping. The Dominicans of the Inquisition moved their attention from the Christian heretics to the Pagan Witches, to those who only paid lip-service to Christianity but still followed an Old Religion and to the wise-ones amongst them. In the purge on Witches, other horned Gods such as Pan became equated with the Devil (a Christian concept) and the pentagram, the folk symbol of security, for the first time in history, was equated with evil and was called the Witches Foot.

The Old Religion and its symbols went underground, in fear of the Church's persecution, and there it stayed, gradually withering, for centuries.

In the foundation of Hermeticism, in hidden societies of craftsmen and scholarly men, away from the eyes of the Church and its paranoia, the proto-science of alchemy developed along with its occult philosophy and cryptical symbolism. Graphical and geometric symbolism became very important and the period of the Renaissance emerged.

The concept of the microcosmic world of Man as analogous to the macrocosm, the greater universe of spirit and elemental matter became a part of traditional western occult teaching, as it had long been in eastern philosophies, As Above, So Below. The pentagram, the Star of the Microcosm, symbolized Man within the microcosm, representing in analogy the Macrocosmic universe.

The upright pentagram bears some resemblance to the shape of man with his legs and arms outstretched. In Tycho Brahe's Calendarium Naturale Magicum Perpetuum (1582) occurs a pentagram with human body imposed and the Hebrew for YHSVH associated with the elements. An illustration attributed to Brae's contemporary Agrippa (Henry Cornelius Agrippa von Nettesheim) is of similar proportion and shows the five planets and the moon, at the center point, the genitalia. Other illustrations of the period by Robert Fludd and Leonardo da Vinci show geometric relationships of man to the universe.

Later, the pentagram came to be symbolic of the relationship of the head to the four limbs and hence of the pure concentrated essence of anything (or the spirit) to the four traditional elements of matter, earth, water, air and fire - spirit is The Quintessence.

In Freemasonry, Man as Microprosopus was and is associated with the five-pointed Pentalpha. The symbol was used, interlaced and upright for the sitting Master of the Lodge. The geometric properties and structure of the Endless Knot were appreciated and symbolically incorporated into the 72 degree angle of the compasses, the Masonic emblem of virtue and duty. The origins of Freemasonry are lost in the depths of history, obscured by the traditional Craft secrecy of the order, but there are signs throughout history of the associations of craftsmanship and ritual and symbolism that have remained known only to a few, and the history of the pentagram has remained occluded in the same kind of mystery. The women's branch of Freemasonry uses the five pointed Eastern Star with two points up as its emblem. Each point commemorates a heroine of biblical lore.

No known graphical illustration associating the pentagram with evil appears until the nineteenth century. Eliphas Levi Zahed (actually the pen name of Alphonse Louis Constant, a defrocked French Catholic Abb) illustrates the upright pentagram of microcosmic man beside an inverted pentagram with the goats head of Baphomet. It is this illustration and juxtaposition that has led to the concept of different orientations of the pentagram being good and evil.

Against the rationalism of the 18th century came a reaction in the 19th century with the growth of a new mysticism owing much to the Holy Qabalah, the ancient oral tradition of Judaism relating the cosmogony of God and the universe and the moral and occult truths of their relationship to Man. It is not so much a religion as a system of understanding based upon symbolism and the numerical and alphabetical interrelationships of words and concepts, the Gematria.

The Golden Dawn did much to advance and disseminate the roots of modern Hermetic Qabalah around the world in its time of strength (from 1888 to around the start of the First World War), and through the writings and work of a number of its adepts and adherents have come some of the most important ideas of todays Qabalist philosophy and magic. In the 1940's Gerald Gardner adopted the pentagram with two points upward as the sigil of second degree initiation in the newly emergent, Neo-Pagan rituals of Witchcraft, later to become known as Wicca. The one-point upward pentagram together with the upright triangle symbolized third degree initiation. (A point downwards triangle is the symbol of First Degree Initiates).

It was not until the late 1960's that the pentagram again became an amuletic symbol to be worn. Co-incidentally with the rise of popular interest in Witchcraft and Wicca and the publication of many books (including several novels) on the subject, there was a reaction to the Church.

In its extreme, one aspect of that reaction was in the establishment of the satanic cult - The Church of Satan - by Anton LaVey. For its emblem, this cult adopted the inverted pentagram after the Baphomet image of Eliphas Levi. The reaction of the Christian church was to condemn as evil all who took the pentalpha as a symbol and even to condemn the symbol itself, much as had been the post-war attitude to the swastika.

The distinction between the point-upwards and point-downwards pentagram forms became accentuated in the minds of Pagans and led to the concepts of white Witchcraft and black. Those who took on board the strong personal ethical code of Wicca, the Wiccan Rede of 'An it harm none, do what you will' did not wish to be tarred with the same brush as the Satanists who's philosophy is one of the domination of the spirit by the physical body - the priority of matter and physical existence.

Hence, despite the use and the different meaning of the inverted pentagram as a symbol of Gardnerian initiation, other Wiccans, notably in the USA where the fundamentalist Christians are particularly aggressive to those who do not share their beliefs, are against any usage of the symbol. It is sad to say that even the use of the upright pentagram gives rise to social discrimination against Pagans in some communities.

Otherwise, the pentagram or pentacle has become firmly established as a common Neo-Pagan and Wiccan symbol, acquiring many aspects of mystique and associations that are today often considered to be ancient folk-lore !

The antiquity of the pentagram is certain; its meanings and associations have evolved and richened throughout its history. Its use within modern Neo-Paganism as a group symbol is as important as the cross has been in the history of Christianity and it is in the ubiquity and the attributed meanings of the symbol that its potency lies rather than in its antiquity. From the Earth aware attitudes and respect of life of modern Pagans has already come the movement towards protecting and conserving the ecology and resources of our planet. Perhaps they will see the dawn of a real new age of hope or perhaps just the end of an age of humanity.

PentaKore ―

Perfection billows around Her Veil ― When the term Perfection billows around Her Veil is used in reference to a Mægikal Implement, Sacred Object, Ceremonial Tool and/or Focus it generally refers to the Purple and Gold Veil of Connection to Ultimate Potential Perfection.

Perfectioning ― Garden of Life considers Perfectioning a Pagan Sacrament. In a preliminary description Perfectioning may be an Act and/or Process which dedicates the focus Individual to Her/His Own Ultimate Potential Perfection, whatever that may be. Perfectioning may also act as an acknowledgment of the Individual by the Tradition. The Sacrament of Perfectioning usually includes a specifically designed Celebration to focus energy to dedicate the Individual to Her/His Own Ultimate Potential Perfection, and follows a pattern that has become Sacred to that Tradition.
Below please find the wording that Garden of Life uses in it's Articles of Organization to delineate this Sacrament:
an Act, Acts, a Process, Processes and/or Series of Acts and/or Processes performed which ordinarily both dedicate the One to be Perfected to Her/His Own Ultimate Potential Perfection, and acts as Rite of Passage into the Temple, claiming the Individual Becoming Quintessentially Perfected, to Membership in Her/His Tribal unit and the Garden of Life. Such Process is usually performed by a group of Celebrants led by one or more Officiants, but which may be performed by any Member on the Currently Active Membership Role on Her/His own Progeny or Joined Ones if necessary. In our Tradition this Process is recommended to be performed as soon after physical birth as practicable (and can be done at any time at the Individual's request), and in approximate three year intervals until the Rite of Passage to is performed.

Performance Art ― Performance Art differs from Theatre in that while it may still be planned, staged and choreographed, it does not occur in a venue that is specifically designed for presentations.

Perfume ― When the term Perfume [in Aleister Crowley's 777 Tables of Correspondences, key number 9] is used in reference to a Mægikal Implement, Sacred Object, Ceremonial Tool and/or Focus it generally refers to

Perpetual Virginity ―

Persian ― When used in reference to a MetaPhysical Orientation as to Tradition, Culture or Preferred Flavour, is primarily defined, usually selfdefined by its members and/or adherents holding as a primary or critical parameter of their Spiritual Paradigm. Persian(PreSufic) - When used in reference to a MetaPhysical Orientation as to Tradition, Culture or Preferred Flavour, is primarily defined, usually selfdefined by its members and/or adherents holding as a primary or critical parameter of their Spiritual Paradigm.

Persian(PreSufic) - When used in reference to a MetaPhysical Orientation as to Tradition, Culture or Preferred Flavour, is primarily defined, usually selfdefined by it's members and/or adherents holding as a primary or critical parameter of their Spiritual Paradigm.

Persian(see also Zoroastrian) - A MetaPhysical Orientation as to Tradition, Culture or Preferred Flavour, is primarily defined, usually selfdefined by its members and/or adherents which holds teachings of Zoroaster and/or interpolations thereon as a as a primary or critical parameter of their Spiritual Paradigm. Zoroastrianism: The religion of the Persians before their conversion to Islam. According to tradition, Zoroaster founded it in the 6th or 7th century BCE. Its principles, contained in the Zend-Avesta, include belief in an afterlife and the continuous struggle of the universal spirit of good, Ormazd, with the universal spirit of evil, Ahriman.

Personal Unconscious ― our individual personality.

Personality Cult ―

Pessomancy ― A type of divination using pebbles or beans, in some cases marked pebbles drawn out of a bag or cast, also called psephomancy, a form of sortilege A general Divinatory System list with short definitions

Peyote ― Hallucinogenic used by some Native American and New Age groups as a sacrament in order to produce altered states of consciousness.

Peyote Way Church of God ― Anne L. Zapf, Willcox, AZ Native American rituals, use the drug peyote as a sacrament. Publishes The Sacred Record newsletter.

Phallomancy ― A type of divination by observation of male reproductive organs A general Divinatory System list with short definitions

Phenomenism ― A MetaPhysical Orientation toward the Divine, that the Divine is revealed through sensory Experience.

Philosopher ―

Philosophical Buddhism ― When used in reference to a MetaPhysical Orientation as to Tradition, Culture or Preferred Flavour, is primarily defined, usually selfdefined by its members and/or adherents as such, and holding the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama Buddha, and/or interpolations thereon as a primary or critical parameter of their Spiritual Paradigm. Some postulate that there is no monolithic Buddhism as such, but that there are Buddhisms such as Sinhala Buddhism or more precisely Sinhala Theravada Buddhism, Siam or Thai Buddhism, Myanmar or Amarapura Buddhism and so forth. The complete entry on Philosophical Buddhism (also see: the complete entry on Buddhism.)

Philosophy ― A Field of Study of or relating to the Love for and Pursuit of Wisdom, underlying Causes and Principles of Reality, the study of the principle of Human Nature and conduct and the investigation of Natural Phenomena, primarily through Logical Reasoning. It is often divided into MetaPhysics, Epistemology, Ethics, Politics and Æsthetics, with MetaPhysics being the study of Existence and the nature of Existence; Epistemology being the study of knowledge and ways of knowing; Ethics being the study of proper Actions; Politics being the study of how humanity should interact in social context; and Æsthetics being the study of Art and what constitutes a Good Life and/or a Beautiful Life. While defining the term Philosophy is in and of itself problematic, it is possible to make several helpful observations: Originally, "philosophy" meant simply "the love of wisdom." "Philo-" comes from the Greek word philein, meaning to love, and "-sophy" comes from the Greek sophia, or wisdom. "Philosopher" replaced the word "sophist" (from sophoi), which was used to describe "wise men," teachers of rhetoric, which were important in Athenian democracy. Some of the first sophists were what we would now call philosophers. At its beginnings, the scope of philosophy was all intellectual endeavor, but the academic meaning of the term has come to be: the primarily abstract and detached study of what is perceived as reality or humanity's context, the study of the meaning and justification of beliefs especially about the most general, or universal, aspects of things. The introduction of the term "philosophy" is generally ascribed to the Greek thinker Pythagoras. A individual's philosophy is their WorldView; it is the selfdefined context out of which their thoughts and actions emerge into the consensus reality. When Philosophy is mentioned the general referrence is to the intellectual endeavor involved in creating or delineating Philosophy. Science concentrates on learning new facts about the reality in through an experimental, confirmable methodology. Art explors and endeavors to communicate the diversity and similarities in the Human experience. Philosophy attempts to develop a context of thought out of which all Human activities may emerge in a more consistent and volitional manner. Of all of one's possessions, surely one's mind is the most treasured, and the most intimately connected to one's being. Therefore it is natural and desirable to make one's thoughts the best that they can be. Admittedly there is some "mill-wheel grinding", or hard and dry work that must be done to gain some basic skills in clear thinking. But the benefits of philosophy are irreplaceable. Some people get an intellectual rush of pleasure from spotting new inferences and insights, and creating new ideas. It is through new ideas that great changes in society are made. Ayn Rand. He who has no tincture of philosophy goes through life imprisoned in the prejudices derived from common sense, from the habitual beliefs of his age or his nation, and from convictions which have grown up in his mind without the cooperation or consent of his deliberate reason. As soon as we begin to philosophize, on the contrary, we find that even the most everyday things lead to problems to which only very incomplete answers can be given. Philosophy...is able to suggest many possibilities which enlarge our thoughts and free them from the tyranny of custom. Bertrand Russell. Because the development of Philosophy requires indepth immersion into the most fundamental components of Reality (and all that resembles it), and those symbolic essences which are often called Archetypes the mere entry into the field inculcates an expansion of mental functioning and capabilities even on the most dilitante level. The definition of philosophy is a philosophical question in its own right. Philosophy is the --a study which is ordinarily carried out not by experimentation or careful observation, but instead typically by formulating problems carefully, offering solutions to them, giving arguments for the solutions, and engaging in the dialectic about all of the above. Philosophy studies such concepts as existence, goodness, knowledge, and beauty. It asks questions such as "What is goodness, in general?" and "Is knowledge even possible?" Probably the most famous philosopher in western civilization is Socrates, and indeed in his "Socratic method" he created the underpinnings of all that we refer to as Philosophy in the West today. In the vernacular the word "philosophy" is often used to refer to any school of thought which is perceived to contain wisdom, particularily when considered separately from any religious component which the school of thought might or might not contain., any individual's perspective on life or WorldView and/or the basic principles behind or method of achieving something. One of the most lovely things about Philosophy is that it allows and encourages the questioning of all things. Philosophy has several sub-disciplines, including:

Metaphysics     Study of Existence     What's out there?
Epistemology     Study of Knowledge     How do I know about it?
Ethics     Study of Action     What should I do?
Politics     Study of Force     What actions are permissible?
Æsthetics     Study of Art     What can life be like?

Many people tend to think of Philosophy as an extra in life, something considered if you have time to or even a frivolous thing, however the truth is that individuals act from their own philosophical context based on their ideas and beliefs about reality whether it is something they have consciously considered and determined for themselves or something merely accumulated from society. Ayn Rand, was an extremely clear and penetrating thinker, never more so than when she said Philosophy is inescapable. Your philosophy is your worldview, which is a backdrop for all thought and a context for all knowledge. The decision about examining philosophy is between: 1) to make your philosophy explicit, or 2) to be a slave to the subconscious notions, principles, and other people's philosophies picked up throughout life. To ignore the topic of philosophy is to be doomed to the second choice. Examining your philosophy will allow you to discover and root out all errors and contradictions and allow you to more easily acquire knowledge and to think in concepts rather than concretes. A philosophic system is an integrated view of existence. As a human being, you have no choice about the fact that you need a philosophy. Your only choice is whether you define your philosophy by a conscious, rational, disciplined process of thought and scrupulously logical deliberation -- or let your subconscious accumulate a junk heap of unwarranted conclusions, false generalizations, undefined contradictions, undigested slogans, unidentified wishes, doubts and fears, thrown together by chance, but integrated by your subconscious into a kind of mongrel philosophy and fused into a single, solid weight: self-doubt, like a ball and chain in the place where your mind's wings should have grown. from Philosophy: Who Needs It.

Phoenician ― (see Canaanite ) Phoenician in general usage refers to a particular Levantine cultural Tradition from the Western edge of Mesopotamia on the Eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea, out of the many that developed there, however, when used in reference to a MetaPhysical Orientation as to Tradition, Culture or Preferred Flavour, is primarily defined, usually selfdefined by its members and/or adherents holding Traditions developed in that area as primary or critical parameters of their Spiritual Paradigm. Some historians, anthropologists, and/or archaeologists consider the more northern of the city-states Phoenician and the more southern ones Canaanite, but there is no consensus.

Phoenix Wand ― When the term Phoenix Wand is used in reference to a Mægikal Implement, Sacred Object, Ceremonial Tool and/or Focus it generally refers to

Phrenology ― A type of divination using bumps on the head A general Divinatory System list with short definitions

Phyllomancy ― A type of divination using leaves A general Divinatory System list with short definitions

Phyllorhodomancy ― A type of divination of luck in love by clapping rose petals against the palm and noting the sounds made A general Divinatory System list with short definitions

Phylloromancy ― A type of divination by the face and/or from the general appearance A general Divinatory System list with short definitions

Physics ―

Physiognomancy ― A type of divination by studying the face and/or facial features A general Divinatory System list with short definitions

Physiolatrous ― When used in reference to a MetaPhysical Orientation of Experiential Spiritual Methodology, devotion to the physical realities of the Cosmos and/or the perceptions of such

Pictish-Elven ― When used in reference to a MetaPhysical Orientation as to Tradition, Culture or Preferred Flavour, is primarily defined, usually selfdefined by its members and/or adherents holding as a primary or critical parameter of their Spiritual Paradigm.

Pictish Witchcraft ― When used in reference to a MetaPhysical Orientation as to Tradition, Culture or Preferred Flavour, is primarily defined, usually selfdefined by its members and/or adherents holding as a primary or critical parameter of their Spiritual Paradigm. Pictish Witchcraft is the study and practice of the religion of the Picts, the pre-Celtic inhabitants of northern Scotland. Pecti-Wita is concerned with all aspects of prosperity, growth, abundance, creativity, and healing, and honors the Celtic Deities. The main tools in Pecti-Wita are the Staff and the Athame or Dirk. Pecti-Witans use a "Keek-Stane" which is, in effect, a scrying stone or the equivalent of a crystal ball. Also known as Pecti-Wita, Wita. Pictish Witchcraft-"Pictish-Elven" is meant to signify a subset or offshoot of the so-called Feri or Fairy Tradition as adumbrated by Victor Anderson and represented by the late Gwydion Pendderwen, Starhawk (especially in the first book), and Francesca De Grandis, author of the recent Be a Goddess. Although it is a word strongly rooted in Germanic and Scandinavian pagan belief and language (fairy is more common and older in the British Isles and where English overlays a Celtic substratum as with Ireland, Scotland, etc.), "Elven" is meant to carry a higher, nobler, more awe-inspiring nuance than "fairy," even while doing the job of a synonym. The "Pictish" element is meant to bring back to the fore one central thread of the Tradition, as taught by Victor, about which, for some reason , none of the aforementioned authors has even whispered so much as a single word. I refer to the legend that the Feri Tradition carries on and embodies the legacy and lineage of the pre-Christian mystery cult of the Picts, the pre-Scottish inhabitants of what is now Scotland. Francesca De Grandis, in her book Be a Goddess does (briefly) discuss the Blue God "Dian-y-Glas," but does not point out that the name is supposed to be in Pictish or address any of the issues dependant thereof. This tradition is very old and intense. And very hard to find competent information on. Mostly web information that is eclectic in nature.

Planetary Network Community of Like-minded Sentients ―

Pneumancy ― A type of divination by blowing, of candles, etc. (still practiced today with birthday cakes) A general Divinatory System list with short definitions

Podomancy ― A type of divination using the feet A general Divinatory System list with short definitions

Poetry ― Whether written or spoken, Poetry is Rhythmic Language which has Emotional Impact. There is no True effective way to define Poetry, however one can hint at it: language that formulates concentrated imaginative awareness of experience, created, chosen and arranged to evoke and/or invoke a specific emotional response through its meaning, sound and rhythm, and excites the imagination of the reader and/or listener and gives a sense of heightened and more meaningful sense of existence with spontaneity and grace.

Poltergeist ― From German ("rattling ghost"); an apparently supernatural disturbance attributed to a ghost or spirit. Usually associated with the visible movement of physical objects by an unseen spiritual (that is, occult) force. See Demon, Spiritualism, Necromancy.

PolyAmoury ―

Polynesian and Oceanic ― When used in reference to a MetaPhysical Orientation as to Tradition, Culture or Preferred Flavour, is primarily defined, usually selfdefined by its members and/or adherents which holds teachings originating in and/or interpolations thereon as a primary or critical parameter of their Spiritual Paradigm.

PolyTheism ― A MetaPhysical Orientation toward the Divine, that postulates many Faces of the Divine Force, or many Divine Entities. PolyTheism is the doctrine and worship of many gods as separate conscious entities. The belief in the existence of a plurality of gods, in contrast to monotheism (one God) or atheism (no God or gods). Examples include Greek, Roman and Norse mythology; ancient Egyptian, Babylonian, and Assyrian religions; and some forms of neo-paganism, Wicca, and New Age belief. Some forms of Hinduism combine polytheism with pantheism (all is God). The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints teaches a form of Christianized polytheism, since it holds that the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are three Gods and that human beings can become exalted to Godhood.

Pool-Pah ― in the context of the Vonnegutian Bokononist Religion is translated both as "shit storm" and "wrath of God".

Portal ― When the term Portal is used in reference to a Mægikal Implement, Sacred Object, Ceremonial Tool and/or Focus it generally refers to

Postulate ―

Potential ― The Field of unmanifested possibility, ordinarily indicating more the degree of effectual potency of the object discussed than the intent.

Potentiation ―

Power Doctor Tradition ― When used in reference to a MetaPhysical Orientation as to Tradition, Culture or Preferred Flavour, is primarily defined, usually selfdefined by its members and/or adherents holding as a primary or critical parameter of their Spiritual Paradigm. In the Ozarks region of the United States, power doctors are backwoods healers who use charms, amulets, incantations and magick to cure illness. They cannot charge a fee, but may accept gifts and offerings. Power doctors must learn their Craft from a person of the opposite sex who is not a blood relative. They may in turn teach two or three others the Craft, but that they would lose their abilities should they teach more.

PowWow ― When used in reference to a MetaPhysical Orientation as to Tradition, Culture or Preferred Flavour, is primarily defined, usually selfdefined by its members and/or adherents holding as a primary or critical parameter of their Spiritual Paradigm. POWWOW: The magickal system of healing used by the Pennsylvania Dutch who elicited the help of the Indigenous people in Pennsylvania to help them find the herbs and roots in the area that could be used in the Old Country traditions. Pow-Wow Also known as Pennsylvania Dutch Country Tradition and/or Hexcraft. In Northern Pennsylvania, German settlers began arriving in the late 17th century, the bulk of them immigrating in the first half of the 18th century. The term Pennsylvania "Dutch" is a corruption of the German word "Deutch" meaning German. Silver RavenWolf lives in Pennsylvania and describes this magical tradition in HexCraft. She has Pennsylvania Dutch ancestors, as I also do. Two distinct groups of German immigrants came to Pennsylvania. The Fancy Germans, or Lutherans, brought their elaborate folk history with them, including the ornate customs of Christmas and Easter, the Yule tree and log, colorful decorations, baskets, and pictures of bunnies. The other German group was the Plain or Pietist Germans. They included members of the Mennonite, Amish, Dunker, and Brethern denominations. The Plain Germans wore distinctive clothing and tried to live a simple rural life-style guided by their interpretation of the Bible. Some of the pow-wowers Silver RavenWolf interviewed were Brethren, Mennonites, and Dunkers. South central Pennsylvania was fertile and not physically isolated, as were the southern Appalachians. Hexcraft, or pow-wow, as it is locally called, survived because of the tendency of both Fancy and Plain Germans to live in tightly knit communities, where they preserved their customs and language into the 20th century. Native Americans were present, at least initially, when the Germans arrived and the term pow-wow was possibly derived from the early settlers' observations of Indian pow wows. Silver RavenWolf thinks the word pow-wow may also be a derivative of the word power or may come from the Native American pow wow definition meaning "he who dreams." Pow-wowing includes some charms and incantations dating from the Middle Ages plus elements borrowed from the Jewish Qabala and Christian Bible. Pow-wowing generally focuses on healing minor health problems, the protection of livestock, success in love, and the casting or removing of hexes. For over 200 years, pow-wowers have considered themselves to be staunch Christians endowed with supernatural powers to both heal and harm. Hex signs are the most widely recognized symbols associated with pow-wow magic. The word hex means a spell or bewitchment and comes from the German word hexe for witch. Hex signs are round magical signs and symbols used primarily to protect against hexerie (witchcraft). They were used by the Fancy Dutch but not the Amish and strict Mennonites. Some hex symbols and designs originate in the Bronze Age. Ancient Celtic and Germanic tribes put emphasis on the energy patterns of the divine Source rather than its representation as a human archetype. The Source was depicted in universal designs that assisted in focusing power either toward or away from the design. The basic pattern found in the original hex signs is the double rosette, which is found at many ancient European holy sites.

Practitionor ― One who practices or follows a particular Tradition or school of thought in their MetaPhysical praxis, Philosophical, Religious, Spiritual, Mægikal and so forth.

Pranayama(One of the Eight Limbs of Raja Yoga from the traditions of the Indus Valley) - regulation or control of the breath. Padmasana (the familiar Lotus Asana) is often used during Pranayama sessions. Asanas and Pranayama form the sub-division of Raja Yoga known as Hatha-Yoga

Pratyahara(One of the Eight Limbs of Raja Yoga from the traditions of the Indus Valley) - withdrawal of the senses in order to still the mind.

Praxiologism ― When used in reference to a point of view within the field of Ethical, Value and/or Behavioural Matters, this is a Point of View in which the prime parameter for effectuating a course of action is determined by choosing that which is

Praxis ― that which is done

Precognition ― inner paranormal knowledge of the future ―

Preliminary Discipline ― When the term Preliminary Discipline [in Aleister Crowley's 777 Tables of Correspondences in reference to the obtainment of Discipline over one's self as a preliminary to Mægik, key number 19] is used in reference to a Mægikal Implement, Sacred Object, Ceremonial Tool and/or Focus it generally refers to

Premiss ―

Premonition ―

Presentience ― an advance sense of events ―

Presleyterianism ― First Presleyterian Church of Elvis the Divine.

PreSocratic ―

Priest ― An Officiant performing a Leadership function, particularly in Celebratory Ritual, generally of a Manifestory, Showing and/or Sending Nature.

Priestess ― An Officiant performing a Leadership function, particularly in Celebratory Ritual, generally of a Manifestory, Showing and/or Building Nature.

Prioritism ― When used in reference to a point of view within the field of Ethical, Value and/or Behavioural Matters, this is a Point of View in which the prime parameter for effectuating a course of action is determined by choosing that which is

Privacy Value ―

Process Church of the Final Judgement ― Robert de Grimston Occult, Three Great Gods who are Jehovah, Lucifer, and Satan. Dualism-unity of Christ and Satan, both are equally good and should be loved. Grimston who wrote, As It Is, was ousted in 1974. Several splinters formed. Charles Manson was reported to be a member at one time.

Process Theology ― Built on the philosophy of Alfred North Whitehead, process theology is a heresy within liberal Christianity that holds that reality is becoming rather than being - in process rather than static. The Bible has a relative authority in that it concurs with one's own self-evident experiences, rather than having absolute authority over all human experiences and beliefs, as in evangelical Christianity. Process theology teaches panentheism (God is in all), which is to be distinguished from pantheism (God is all). Panentheism teaches that even though God is somehow transcendent, He also includes the world within Himself. Therefore, God is in "process," evolving along with creation into future possibilities. Some New Agers (e.g., Matthew Fox) and some Mormons have found value in process theology.

Proclus Society and Neo-Pythagorean Gnostic Church ― Chicago, IL Mixture of occult, Theosophy and Rosicrucianism; teaches yoga, and astrology.

Project X ― See Jamilian University of the Ordained.

Projection ― When used in reference to the field of Analytical Psychology the unconscious displacement of psychic contents onto other people or objects. The projected contents may be unacceptable emotions and qualities or they may be beneficial and valuable. Both Shadow and Soul-image projections are carried by real men and women. The recollection and integration of projected contents is an important part of analysis and of the individuation process.

Pronoeômancy ― A type of divination by psychic impressions A general Divinatory System list with short definitions

Propitiatory ― A MetaPhysical Orientation of Experiential Spiritual Methodology, which is ordinarily characterized by much emphasis being placed on offerings, with the intent of diverting what is believed to be coming in the normal course of things. actions intended as negotiation in the sense of supplication and with the implication of submission as interaction with disincarnate forces for specific ends. Actions intended as negotiation with disincarnate forces for specific ends.

Proselytization ― The behaviour of attempting to convert persons from one school of religious or MetaPhysical belief to another.

Protean Family Tradition ― When used in reference to a MetaPhysical Orientation as to Tradition, Culture or Preferred Flavour, is primarily defined, usually selfdefined by its members and/or adherents holding as a primary or critical parameter of their Spiritual Paradigm. A Wiccan tradition based on Gardnerian Wicca that is the lineal descendants of Proteus Coven in New York City. The High Priestess of Proteus, Judy Harrow, founded the coven in the Gardnerian practice during the early 1980's. In late 1985, after a series of internal conflicts over some of the changes of practice instituted by Harrow, a body of Gardnerian Elders indicated a desire to disassociate with Proteus and her descendants. In the early 1990's, Harrow declared the Protean Family to be a "self-aware subgroup" of the Gardnerian line.

Protestant Christianity ― Often used generically of all Christian churches that are neither Roman Catholic nor Orthodox, the term more specifically refers to the movement that originated in the 16th century Reformation. Luther, Zwingli, Calvin and others led efforts to correct, reform or "protest" the errors in doctrine and practice that they saw in medieval Roman Catholicism. The 16th century Protestants saw their main doctrinal differences with Catholicism to include Soli Deo Gloria ("only to God's glory," God's wisdom and glory as opposed to church/papal sovereignty); Sola Scriptura ("Scripture only," the authority of the Bible over official Papal interpretation and tradition), and Sola Gratia (salvation "by grace alone," eternal life received from God as a free gift by grace through faith in the imputed righteousness of Christ rather than by works, rituals, or sacraments). Orthodox Christianity Generically the term orthodox refers to traditional, conservative forms of Christianity, upholding the traditional Christian beliefs about God as a Trinity and about Jesus Christ as taught in the church's early creeds. In this sense orthodox Christianity includes conservative Roman Catholics, and Protestant, evangelical Christianity, and is opposed both to liberal Christianity within Christian denominations and to the teachings of the cults. More specifically, the term Orthodox (with a capital O; or, Eastern Orthodox) refers to the state churches of Eastern Europe and the eastern Mediterranean who split with Roman Catholicism of the West largely over the issue of papal authority. The Reformation The 16th century movement initiated by Martin Luther, initially intended to correct, protest, or reform the doctrines and practices of Roman Catholicism. Luther's efforts (later joined and expanded by Zwingli, Bucer, Calvin and others) quickly developed into a complete break with Catholicism. The reformers' major doctrinal issues included a rejection of: the authority of the following: the authority of the Pope, church control of Bible translation and interpretation, a distinction in value between laity and clergy, and salvation being a product of the church and its sacraments (salvation by works). A more thorough (and in some cases unorthodox) reform occurred with the Radical Reformation-the orthodox Anabaptist movement being an example. To various degrees, virtually all Protestant denominations today share a common heritage concerning the issues of the Reformation.

Prytani Tradition ― When used in reference to a MetaPhysical Orientation as to Tradition, Culture or Preferred Flavour, is primarily defined, usually selfdefined by its members and/or adherents holding as a primary or critical parameter of their Spiritual Paradigm.

Psephomancy ― A type of divination using cast or drawn pebbles, lots or markers by drawing from a pile, in some cases by a chicken, a type of sortilege A general Divinatory System list with short definitions

Psionics ― See First Universal Church of God-Realization.

Psuchôpaiônomancy ― A type of divination using Shamanic methodology A general Divinatory System list with short definitions

Psyche and Psychic Energy ― When used in reference to the field of Analytical Psychology by psyche, Jung means the whole of our being, conscious and unconscious. His analytical psychology attempts to reveal a structure and dynamics of the psyche and to create a typology of psychic energy - attitudes, functions, types and so on. Psychic energy can flow in a number of channels - biological, psychological, spiritual and moral. It will change direction and flow into another channel if it is blocked in any one channel. A shift in the flow of energy has purpose and functions to maintain a balance in the psyche as a whole.

Psychedelic Venus Church ― San Francisco, CA Paganism, goddesses Venus and Aphrodite.

Psychiatrists ― Medical Doctors, MDs, that can dispense medications and whose primary training is medical. (Psychologists and Psychotherapist can not prescribe medication.) They are physicians and, therefore, vary greatly in their therapy training. Some are great with therapy and some mostly prescribe medication.

Psychic Reality ― When used in reference to the field of Analytical Psychology a major concept for Jung. The psyche functions in psychic reality. Life is experienced as psychic reality, and even "illusory' experiences are real from this point of view. Both the inner and outer world are perceived by us in images, and as evidence of this, we tend to personify unconscious contents. So Christ, for example, is a collective image of the Self and has a real psychic force, quite independent of the historical question of Jesus.

Psychic Vision ―

Psychokinesis ― Supposed ability to control movement of physical objects by the power of the mind alone, apart from the laws of natural physics.

Psychomancy ― A type of divination by entity's souls, spirits, affections, wills, religious or moral dispositions, in some cases noncorporeal beings A general Divinatory System list with short definitions

Psychometry ― A type of divination by holding or touching an object that was once in contact with the subject of the divination. The science of divination through measurement in the sense of "Taking the measure of". An interdisciplinary science concerned with the interactions of mind, body, matter, environment, energy and consciousness. The ability to discover facts about an object or an individual connected with it, by being close to, or in contact with, the object that was once in physical contact with the individual or object. A general Divinatory System list with short definitions

Psychosis ― When used in reference to the field of Analytical Psychology an invasion of consciousness by unconscious contents where the conscious Ego becomes overwhelmed, splitting the individual off from social responses and conventional reality. Consequently, it is difficult for psychotic patients to respond to psychotherapy. The same process that produces madness in one person may be allied to genius in another. Psychotic states can be part of religious conversion and intense inspiration.

Psychologists ― Require a doctorate degree and are primarily trained in psychotherapy. Many if not most, have specialties like mind-body-spirit, ADHD, or survivors. Training is supervised and licensed. Both Psychiatrists and Psychologists are possibly covered by insurance.

Psychotherapist ― Promotes self-awareness of mental and emotional disorders through counseling and analysis. May or may not be covered by insurance. Usually has a master's degree of training, such as a social worker or a licensed professional counselor. Quality of work depends more on the individual's experience and training.

Pure Land or Shin Buddhism ― When used in reference to a MetaPhysical Orientation as to Tradition, Culture or Preferred Flavour, is primarily defined, usually selfdefined by its members and/or adherents as such, and holding the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama Buddha, and/or interpolations thereon as a primary or critical parameter of their Spiritual Paradigm. Pure Land's goal is eternal after death paradise called the "Pure Land of the West"
Some of the other beliefs in Pure Land Buddhism include:
      * many Buddhas and other divine beings, some called Bodhisattvas, some called Dhyani Buddhas (these were never human but dwelt in heaven and can help humans)
      * Amitabha is most famous Dhyani Buddha and presides over the western paradise called the Pure Land
      * emphasis on faith in Amitabha, just uttering his name is of aid
      * priests can marry, have children, eat meat, live in world, organized into churches, Sunday schools with sermons and prayers
Some postulate that there is no monolithic Buddhism as such, but that there are Buddhisms such as Sinhala Buddhism or more precisely Sinhala Theravada Buddhism, Siam or Thai Buddhism, Myanmar or Amarapura Buddhism and so forth. The complete entry on Pure Land Buddhism (also see: the complete entry on Buddhism.)

Pyramid ― When the term Pyramid is used in reference to a Mægikal Implement, Sacred Object, Ceremonial Tool and/or Focus it generally refers to

Pyramid of Fire ― When the term Pyramid of Fire [in Aleister Crowley's 777 Tables of Correspondences, key number 31] is used in reference to a Mægikal Implement, Sacred Object, Ceremonial Tool and/or Focus it generally refers to

Pyromancy ― A type of divination using fire A general Divinatory System list with short definitions

Pyroscopy ― A type of divination by burning a sheet of paper on a white surface and examining the resulting stains A general Divinatory System list with short definitions

Pythagorean ― When used in reference to a MetaPhysical Orientation as to Tradition, Culture or Preferred Flavour, is primarily defined, usually selfdefined by it's members and/or adherents holding the teachings of Pythagoras as a primary or critical parameter of their Spiritual Paradigm.

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