Image taken from https://mitoloji.org.tr/ilir-paganizmi-ve-eski-inanclari/.

Albanian Neopaganism represents modern paganism in the Albanian-populated areas, which, although with limited influence, represents an attempt to return to the roots of ancient traditions and beliefs. This phenomenon, influenced by the search for cultural identity and historical heritage, remains more associated with individuals and small groups, who often follow practices inspired by ancient paganism. In a region where monotheistic traditions have dominated for centuries, neopaganism offers a rare alternative, which focuses on respect for nature and cultural heritage.

Historical and cultural roots

Before the advent of monotheistic (Abrahamic) religions, the ancient peoples of the Balkans, including above all the Illyrians, practiced a series of polytheistic beliefs that worshipped the gods of nature, the forces of heaven and earth. These beliefs are partly preserved in oral traditions, customs and cultural symbols, such as the House Serpent, which is still considered a protector in some rural areas.

Another example is the concept of “Besa,” which, although later integrated into the Kanun of Lekë Dukagjini, is rooted in an ancient sense of honor and social obligation. A similar case is the centuries-old Oak which is reminiscent of the Oak of ancient Dodona as much as the sacred Tree.

Ritual festivals and practices, such as the Lama Dinner or the Wheat Festival to mark the end of the harvest, the Summer Day, then Buzmi or the use of symbols such as the crossing of the legs to ward off negative energies, are also remnants of ancient traditions. The tradition known as Gjama e Burrave also has pronounced pagan elements. These elements indicate a deep connection with nature and its cycles, which represent the pillars of neopaganism.

Related to this idea is the expression, The religion of the Albanian is Albanianism, which represents a concept that places national identity above any religious division, focusing on the belonging and unity of Albanians as a people. This idea is related to Albanian neopaganism in the sense that neopagan movements often aim to restore ancient indigenous beliefs and symbols, seeing them as essential for the preservation of national culture and spirit.

Albanian neopagans approach the Illyrian and Dardanian heritage as an original source of spiritual identity, considering it as a pure form of Albanianism, which is not influenced by later monotheistic religions. In this context, Albanianism becomes a kind of “religion” in itself, promoting a direct connection to the historical, cultural, and spiritual roots of the Albanian people.

Factors of Neopaganism

Some of the main factors that have contributed to the revival of interest in ancient pagan traditions in recent decades include:

Search for identity: In a globalized world, many Albanians seek to reconnect with their cultural roots, recalling their ancient and rich past.
Awareness of cultural heritage: Interest in Illyrian history and mythology has spurred the revival of some forgotten practices and beliefs.
Distancing from traditional religious institutions: For some individuals, neopaganism offers a more personal and spiritual approach to life, without the dogmatic constraints of traditional religious organizations.
Connection with nature: In modern times, connecting with nature and the environment is seen as a way to counteract the effects of urbanization and environmental destruction.

Practices and Influence

The practices of Albanian neopagans, although not very widespread, are diverse, including among others:

Worship of nature gods: Solstices and equinoxes are important moments that are celebrated to honor the cycles of nature.
Modest rituals and herbalism: Some individuals focus on natural medicine and rituals for spiritual healing.
Honoring ancestors: Here and there it can be observed that ceremonies are performed to honor ancestors and to ask for wisdom and protection from them.

The influence of these practices is most noticeable in rural areas and in individuals who are closely connected to nature, culture and traditional folklore. Institutions such as museums and the like have begun to document these traditions, documenting and preserving an important cultural heritage.

Challenges and prospects

Despite this revival, neopaganism faces several challenges in Albanian lands:

Lack of detailed knowledge: Information about Illyrian beliefs is fragmentary and often based on interpretations.

The influence of traditional religions: The integration of ancient beliefs into the framework of Christianity and Islam often leaves little room for traditional practices.

Modernization and globalization: These processes can distract attention from local traditions, making it difficult to preserve them.

However, the growing awareness and interest in these beliefs as part of the national heritage shows that neopaganism has a special role in enriching Albanian cultural identity. It not only helps to preserve traditions, but also inspires younger generations to connect the past with the present in a meaningful way.

Sources

• Qazimi, Azem (2008). Dictionary of Albanian mythology and demonology: festivals, rites and symbols. Plejad. ISBN 978-99956-706-1-0.
• Tirta, Mark (2004). Mythology among Albanians. Albanian Academy of Sciences – Institute of Popular Culture, Department of Ethnology. ISBN 978-99927-938-9-3.
• “VIDEO/ ABC Story: “Gjama e Burrave”, how pagan rites survived among Albanians”. Retrieved 2024-11-20.
• https://www.gazetatema.net/2020/10/21/beselashtet-ringjallja-e-paganizmit-mes-shqiptareve
• “ATP | Albanian Third Position”. albaniathirdposition.com (in English and Albanian). Retrieved 2024-11-20.
• “ALBANIAN PAGAN FORUM”. zoysi.albanianforum.net. Retrieved 2024-11-20.
• “Moikom Zeqo: Goddess Dardania”. Zemra Shqiptare. Retrieved 2024-11-20.
• “Four religions, one pagan people!?”. Telegrafi. 2014-01-13. Retrieved 2024-11-20.