Talking My Path: Zachariah Shipman

[Welcome to our column, Talking My Path. Here, polytheists, witches, and Pagans of any tradition are invited to discuss and celebrate their spirituality in a series of five short questions. If you would like to participate, don’t hesitate to email us at ev0kepublication@gmail.com.]

ev0ke: How do you define your particular tradition or path? Does it have a specific name?

Zachariah Shipman: My tradition is mostly Orphic-Platonic in nature. It revolves around the celebration of divinity and the pursuit of Henosis/Apotheosis.

ev0ke: Which Deities, powers, or other spirits are honored in your tradition?

ZS: Though I mostly include Hellenic deities, many Gods and Goddesses of other Pantheons have a way of sneaking in. Generally speaking, I only work with Mediterranean and Middle/Near Eastern deities, but do favor others as well.

ev0ke: Among the various festivals and holy days celebrated in your tradition, which is the most important to you, and why?

ZS: To me, the celebration of the Seasons and natural occurrences of life are the most holy. From the birth of life in the Spring, to its death in the Fall.

ev0ke: Which texts, websites, or other resources would you recommend to someone interested in your tradition?

ZS: Theoi.com is an excellent site to learn about the mythos of the deities. The Dionysiaka by Nonnos is also an equally important Logos in my tradition.

ev0ke: Is there anything you would like to add, such as creative projects you are undertaking, festivals or events you will be attending, and so on?

ZS: I am the current President of the United Hellenismos Association which revolves around the spread and teaching of common knowledge of our religion to the rest of the world. It serves as a safe haven for Hellenic Polytheists around the globe.