 KHARIS:Hellenic Polytheism Explored
A portion of the proceeds from the
sale of Kharis are donated to non-profit organizations (local, national
and international) which support
indigenous and endangered religions, environmental causes, and
cognitive freedom. Donations have gone to groups such as Survival International, The
Lost
and Endangered Religions Project,
Heifer International, Erowid.org, Maetreum of Cybele, and the McKenzie River Trust, among
others.
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. [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.] * * * * * * * * * * Sarah Kate Istra Winter 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 owner of several polytheist websites which can be found at her homepage, Winterscapes.com. You can see more of her writing on Wildivine and the blog A Forest Door. She grew up in New England, and now lives in beautiful Eugene, Oregon, where nymphs can be found around every corner. |