The quest for the authentic self

Many Pagans are on a quest for the authentic Self. This is often visualized as something we already possess; we just have to clear away the accretions caused by so-called civilization. In this model, the true Self can be found by getting in touch with Nature.

Some religions take the view that the ego must be slain in order to progress spirituality. In some forms of Christian mysticism, this takes the form of kenosis (pouring out of self) and theosis (being filled with God).

In Wicca: the old...