You're not the only one who is curious about what "Pagan" means. Pagans live all around the globe. This term can also be used to refer to shamanism or respect for the deceased. It can also be used to describe witchcraft. But, it's not clear what paganism really means.
'Pagan' means 'civilian'
Despite having no religious roots the word "pagan" is still used frequently to describe people who don't observe traditional religious practices. The classical Latin word "pagus" is also the source of the word "peasant". The original meaning was "nonreligious", or rustic. However, it has been interpreted as civilian over the years.
'Heathen' means'military'
"Heathen" can be used to refer to those who practice Asatru (an Old Norse religion). The term is also used to describe practices based in Germanic traditions. Asatru has members in Germany, Canada and the United States. They are organized under Troth a 501 (c)3 religious organization that has stewards in New Zealand, Australia.
"Shamanism" is a way to respect the dead.
Shamanism has its own philosophical underpinnings. While it was closely related to the early Abrahamic religion, the shamanic worldview incorporated more gods and evil spirits, as well as raw superstition. Its influence is evident in Scripture.
'Witchcraft'
Pagan culture defines witchcraft as the practice of using supernatural powers (including those of nature) to control the world around yourself. Pagans have been practicing such methods for hundreds of years. They believe that they can gain special powers by connecting with the natural forces through rituals or special conspiracies. This tradition is often connected to esotericism. This is the study or ancient beliefs and philosophy.
'Druidism'
Druidism can be described as a spiritual path that draws on ancient pagan practices and beliefs. Many druids believe that nature is essentially spiritual, and believe in reincarnation and alternate lives in the Otherworld. James Lovelock, while working at NASA in the 1960s, proposed the Gaia Hypothesis, which claims Earth is a living organism. Golding gave the idea its name.
'Hellenism'
'Hellenism' is a broad umbrella term for a variety of pagan religious traditions honoring the pantheon of the ancient Greeks. These practices are meant to revive old religious practices. Some groups claim to be the original tradition, while others are merely revivalists.
'Wicca'
Wicca is a form of pagan religion, which generally involves worshipping and working with a Goddess or God. These deities may take on many forms, including the Triple Goddess, Horned God, or Goddess of the Moon. The emphasis of these deities varies by group, but most Wiccans believe that the God and Goddess are one and the same, and that they are both part of the same Divine image.