 KHARIS:Hellenic Polytheism Explored
Note: This is the second edition (2008) of Kharis, updating the original 2004 publication. It contains several additions and changes, as well as an updated survey, and new cover and interior design. [BUY AT CREATESPACE] [BUY AT AMAZON.COM]
* 20% of the profits from the sale of Kharis will be donated to Survival International,
a charitable organization working to protect tribal peoples around the
world. I support preserving the diversity and multitude of these
cultural groups, most of whom are polytheistic and/or animistic and
whose spiritual traditions often are lost along with their lands and
way of life.
Kharis: Hellenic Polytheism Explored delves into the many aspects of the revival of Greek paganism, from its ancient roots to its modern practice. It is written for the person new to Hellenismos, and for the person who has been practicing for years, as well as for people outside of the religion who are interested in learning more. It covers not only the basics of worship, but also how to make the ancient religion relevant to modern times, cultivate relationships with the gods and other divinities, and create a deeply satisfying spiritual life. The emphasis of this book is on the concept of kharis - the reciprocity so implicit in the practice of Hellenic polytheism. From the simplest devotional act, to prayer, to divination, to mysticism, the principle of reciprocal favor governs the heart of this religion and lets each worshipper encounter the gods on a real and profound level. * * * * * * * * * * Sarah Kate Istra Winter, also known by her religious name Oinokhoe, has been practicing Hellenic polytheism for over ten years; she is devoted to Dionysos, Hermes, Apollon and the Nymphs. Ms. Winter has written for a number of pagan publications, and was the editor of the Neokoroi newsletter He Epistole for several years. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Myth and Ritual from Goddard College. Ms. Winter is the founder of Thiasos Lusios (an online Dionysian group), co-founder of the Eranos Agriotheios (Wildivine), and the owner of several polytheist websites which can be found at her homepage, winterscapes.com. She grew up in New England, and now lives in beautiful Eugene, Oregon, where nymphs can be found around every corner. |