This book combines descriptions of personal experiences with deity with academic considerations of the beliefs, practices and consequences of Pagan vs. monotheistic, (especially Christian) religions.

Submitted by Salient

Many Practitioners of the Occult tend to favor 'Paganism', a religion of many Gods and Goddesses, especially Nature. However, there are a few who are also Christians, who also favor Nature and its 'occult' mysteries. Our popular culture teaches us that these two religious paths are incompatible and different, and the Christians doubt their interest in light of what they are told, however this is not truly the case.

In this book, Dr. DiZerega explores both the Pagan and Christian philosophies, history and "Mutual" relationship. He then explains criticisms by Pagans of Christians and vice versa. He doesn't dispute these criticisms, but elaborates on them for deeper understanding, to show that they are actually without merit. In the conclusion, he actually shows that the pagan beliefs and respect for the natural world are already present within Christian scripture, making paganism compatible with Christianity.

This book offers scholarly and civil discussion from both points of view, Christian and Pagan, to enable interfaith dialogue for better understanding of the two paths. He dispels criticisms and misconceptions while trying to bridge the gap between the two. Paganism is not the evil society tells us, but has its roots in similar beliefs by Christians. This book is a 'must-read' for anyone, be they Pagan or Christian, to understand the other through coherent and resourceful interfaith dialogue. The merits of Interfaith understanding are critical to those that study the often 'misunderstood' magical arts, to better enable them a solid incorporation of their practice into their own religion and relationships to other practitioners. This book helps bridge this gap.

I am Christian by background (and profession, actually) and I found this to be a great bridge. I tend to be predisposed to paganism, being a somewhat alternative Christian, and I loved his story, and his respect for both faiths. He does not take cheap shots. ( )