17. What is the Difference between Hard and Soft Polytheism?
Pagan Religions in Five Minutes - Suzanne Owen
Jefferson F. Calico
University of the Cumberlands
Description
Hard polytheism views each deity as a distinct entity, while soft polytheism interprets them as aspects of a singular divine reality. Modern intellectual contexts and the internal dynamics of the Pagan community shape this debate. Both ancient and contemporary polytheistic traditions often incorporate elements of both perspectives, reflecting the rich and complex nature of religious belief and practice.