Paganism and Social Media Episode
- Midnight Starr
- 7 days ago
- 8 min read
What it's All About:
Join me on this episode as I explore the ever-evolving landscape where Paganism meets social media. In an increasingly connected world, digital platforms have become a vital space for Pagans to find community, share knowledge, and express their spiritual paths. I'll examine the ways social media has shaped modern Paganism, from the rise of online covens and digital rituals to the widespread sharing of spellcraft and magical practices. Discover how platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook have fostered global connections, allowing seekers and practitioners to find their tribes regardless of geographical barriers, and democratized access to information and diverse perspectives within the Pagan world.
However, the digital hearth isn't without its shadows. I'll also openly discuss the challenges that come with this online integration. From issues of misinformation and cultural appropriation to the pressures of performative spirituality and the potential for gatekeeping within digital communities, I'll consider the nuances of maintaining authenticity and healthy boundaries online. Whether you're an experienced digital witch or just starting to explore Paganism's online presence, this episode offers insights into navigating the complexities of connecting, learning, and thriving in the vibrant intersection of Paganism and social media.
Songs Featured:
Spirit Guide Background Music by primalhousemusic from Pixabay
Dream Symbol Background Music by Santiago Amaya from Pixabay
Meditation Background Music Music by Pankaj Yadav from Pixabay
Links Mentioned:
#Witchesofinstagram: How does social media spread spirituality, witchcraft, and pagan movements?
Technopaganism: A Contemporary Spirituality in the Digital Space
Cultural Appropriation in Contemporary Neopaganism and Witchcraft
Online platforms risk becoming ideological echo chambers that undermine meaningful dialogue
Get in Touch Through Social Media:
Spirit Guide of the Week:
Iris
Dream Symbol:
Devil
Digging
Transcript:
(02:34)
Welcome to another episode of the Music from the Goddess’ Vault Podcast. I am your host, Midnight Starr. You just hear Gaia by Faun.
The topic of today’s show is all about Paganism and Social Media.
Got a moment? I'm always eager to know what you'd like to hear next! What future show topics, spirit guides, or dream symbols are on your mind? Your ideas really help shape the show, so drop your brilliance via the link in the show notes. You can also find me hanging out on Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, Blue Sky, and Mastodon. For more insights, my blog at goddessvault1.wixsite.com/home is full of them.
And to get all the latest updates from Goddess' Vault, sign up for free at musicgoddessvault.substack.com. If you're enjoying the magic and want to support the podcast, consider becoming a paid member for just $7 a month or $70 a year. Your contribution truly helps keep the wisdom flowing!
Alright, now for today's topic: Paganism and Social Media. I truly believe social media is a key factor behind the surge in Paganism's popularity and visibility. In fact, I'd go as far as to say it's also playing a role in why some non-Pagans are becoming more accepting of our paths. What are your thoughts on this?
I'll explore this much more after you hear Lugh by Kellianna.
(05:55)
Social media, in my opinion, has truly been a game-changer for Paganism. Before these platforms, finding other Pagans could be incredibly difficult, especially if you lived somewhere rural. You might have felt isolated, like you were the only one. But now? Social media has completely transformed that, building instant, global communities right at our fingertips.
It allows people to truly find their tribe. Whether you follow a niche path, honor specific deities, or practice traditions that might not have local groups, the internet connects you. These online spaces become vital support networks, offering safe places for discussion, mutual aid, and sharing experiences without the fear of judgment often found in mainstream society. This accessibility is particularly crucial for those with disabilities, limited mobility, or who need to remain "broom closeted" – social media offers them a vital spiritual connection they might not find anywhere else.
Beyond connection, the sheer amount of information and education now available is unprecedented. Knowledge about various Pagan traditions, history, practices, and spellcraft is readily accessible. Podcasts like this one, alongside countless YouTube channels, blogs, and online courses, have made learning incredibly diverse and easy to access. This exposure to a wide range of Pagan viewpoints truly helps newcomers find their authentic path, and it allows experienced practitioners to continually broaden their understanding. It also empowers us to share authentic experiences, helping to dispel common misconceptions about our faith.
And let's talk about growth and visibility. Hashtags like #WitchTok and #Paganism have brought our concepts into mainstream view, sparking curiosity from millions. As more people see Pagans as everyday individuals sharing relatable content, those old stereotypes really start to break down, leading to greater acceptance. Social media also facilitates rapid mobilization for Pagan rights, anti-discrimination efforts, and interfaith dialogue, giving our collective voice more power. It’s also become a powerful marketplace – Pagan artists, crafters, authors, and teachers can now reach a global audience, creating a vibrant Pagan economy and making incredible resources more widely available than ever before.
Finally, social media is a powerful engine for creative expression and inspiration. It provides a platform for Pagans to showcase their beautiful altars, their art, personal rituals, and magical workings. Seeing what others create can be incredibly inspiring, and these online spaces often spark new ideas and collaborative creativity within the community.
Let's take a quick moment for some music now. Here's Ritual by Janna Runnalls.
(13:17)
Time for another Spirit Guide of the Week.
We're going back to Greece to talk about the goddess Iris.
She is the rainbow goddess, but her role extends beyond just bright colors. Iris embodies the rainbow's beauty and fleeting nature. As a main messenger, she flies or runs over an amazing rainbow bridge, carrying vital messages between different worlds. Iris can reach any realm, including the lands of spirits and the dead, serving as a crucial link in the divine communication network.
She's an incredible soul-guide, especially looked up to for helping women on their serious trip to Hades, making sure their journey is respected. This role as a psychopomp highlights her compassionate nature. But Iris doesn't just help with transitions. She is also the spirit of justice itself, often depicted with a caduceus and a pitcher, symbolizing her connection to divine law and fresh water.
And she's the sister to the Harpies, and a famously unwavering servant to Queen Hera. So, the next time you behold a rainbow... let it be a powerful reminder of Iris: the swift messenger, the steadfast guide, and the vibrant spirit of balance and justice.
That is it for now. Stay tuned for another spirit guide of the week.
(17:14)
That was Somewhere Over the Rainbow by Brian Henke.
While social media offers incredible benefits to the Pagan community, it's also important to acknowledge its darker side and the challenges it presents.
One major issue is misinformation and inaccuracy. The ease of sharing means anyone can claim expertise, leading to the rapid spread of incorrect or superficial information. Newcomers especially might struggle to tell reliable sources from those promoting dangerous or ineffective practices. This can also lead to widespread historical inaccuracies, where simplistic or overly romanticized portrayals of ancient traditions cause real misunderstandings.
Then there's the problem of bullying and gatekeeping. The perceived anonymity online can unfortunately lead to direct harassment and "pile-ons" within or against Pagan communities. Some established practitioners or groups might use platforms to dictate what they consider "real" Paganism, shaming or excluding anyone who doesn't fit their mold. This creates pressure to present a perfect or aesthetically pleasing practice, leading to insecurity and a feeling of not being "Pagan enough." What's more, some social media users, particularly on platforms like TikTok, unknowingly "feed the bully" by posting stitches of them, which paradoxically gives the original bully more popularity.
We also see significant issues with cultural appropriation. Social media can quickly amplify trends that involve taking sacred practices or traditions from indigenous cultures without proper understanding or respect. Content often lacks the necessary historical or cultural context, leading to superficial or disrespectful adoption of practices that should remain closed or be approached with deep reverence.
Commercialization and consumerism are also growing concerns. There's a noticeable shift towards "magical consumerism," where the focus is on buying specific tools, crystals, or aesthetic items rather than on genuine spiritual development. The rise of "Pagan influencers" can sometimes prioritize monetizing spirituality over authentic practice.
Finally, we must consider echo chambers, division, and privacy concerns. Social media algorithms can easily create echo chambers, limiting exposure to diverse Pagan viewpoints and reinforcing narrow perspectives. Differences in beliefs or practices can be amplified online, leading to public disputes and internal divisions. For those who are "broom closeted," sharing too much information can accidentally out them to unaccepting family, friends, or employers. And sadly, the openness of online groups can also attract scammers and predators looking to exploit or manipulate others for personal gain.
Now for another musical break with a song that is translated to mean “Twilight Magic)” by Moon and the Nightspirit.
(25:39)
Here's another dream symbol to interpret.
This week there are only two: the Devil and Digging.
First, the Devil.
To see the Devil in your dream often points to your own fears, self-imposed limits, or negative traits.
If you dream of fighting off the Devil, it suggests you'll be successful in defeating your enemies or overcoming a challenge.
When the Devil speaks to you in a dream, it may mean you're struggling to resist a temptation, even when you know it's not good for you.
And dreaming of being friends with the Devil can signal that you're easily swayed and may give in to things you don't want to do.
Now, digging.
Dreaming that you are digging can represent your hard work to uncover the truth about a problem that has been bothering you.
If you dig a hole and find something, it might be a play on words, as in you "dig it"—meaning you like or appreciate what you've found in your waking life.
Digging a hole that fills with water can mean your efforts aren't working, and you need to compromise.
Finally, dreaming of digging for mollusks refers to qualities within yourself that are flexible and can change.
While digging for plastic goods symbolizes qualities that are unchangeable.
If you want a dream symbol to interpret and maybe have a dream symbol featured, I will mention the contact information at the end of this show. So keep dreaming.
(29:56)
Again, you are listening to this podcast in a moving vehicle, please skip ahead. This next meditation comes from the album that is the same title as this next track. This is by Hynoptherapist Trena Barnes and it’s called Self Confidence 3: Declarations for Self-Assurance.
(42:02)
That was Perfect Love by Alexian. Before that you heard Go Dig My Grave by Emerald Rae.
And just like that, another show comes to a close!
I'm your host, Midnight Starr, and I'm always looking for our next adventure. What themes are calling to you for future episodes? Maybe more Spirit Guides, unraveling dream symbols, or something totally unexpected? Whatever's on your mind, you can find me on Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, Blue Sky, and Mastodon. Or, get more content over on my blog at goddessvault1.wixsite.com/home.
To stay in the loop with all the exclusive updates on new episodes, be sure to subscribe to my newsletter at musicgoddessvault.substack.com! Don't miss a beat—join the community today.
Thank you so much for tuning in! To send us off with some good vibes, here's Only Love…Can Tame the Demon by OMNIA.
Blessed Be!
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