The mixing of Western and Eastern mystical traditions is criticized. The Pomegranate discusses the state of contemporary Pagan studies. And a trial begins for Pagans accused of engaging in prostitution as part of their sacred practices. It's Watery Wednesday, our weekly segment on news about the Pagan community! All this and more for the Pagan News Beagle!

Should Pagans make use of Eastern mystical practice and terminology? Does it make a difference if you belong to an Eastern religion? Dana Corby discusses these prickly issues at Patheos.

Religious syncretism is a common enough practice in the Pagan community but are all forms of syncretism the same? P. Sufenas Virius Lupus takes a look at one particular form of syncretism, called "bricolage," which involves the "use of various materials that are at-hand to create new things."

Interested in the history of modern Paganism? Then you might find this piece from The Pomegranate worth a read, which details the development of contemporary Pagan studies over the last several decades.

Feminism has an old and very close relationship with modern Paganism, extending back all the way to foundation of Wicca. As a result, Paganism has benefited from many of the ideas and achievements of the feminist movement. But Paganism has also inherited some of modern feminism's internal conflicts, such as the deepening divide between feminists who accept transwomen and those who alienate them.

It's hardly a surprise to learn that many Pagans and mainstream religious authorities in the United States have differing opinions about the nature of sex. Normally these differences remain a matter of personal opinion, but on occasion they have legal consequences. The Wild Hunt covers the ongoing case of the Phoenix Goddess Temple, which is being accused of prostitution by local authorities in Arizona.


Top image by Bigbear213