Heathen
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Heathen: Term used to describe a person who does not follow an organized religion. Actual meaning: "Of the Heath" - [Heath: grassland.] Originally this term was used to describe peoples living in the northern plains of Europe. These plains were similar to the prairielands of North Dakota. Although the wildlife was able to support a small population of nomadic tribes, it sometimes became necessary for tribes to raid cities to the south for survival. The people "of the heath" had no religious beliefs and the Christian cities they raided used the term "Heathen" to describe them. They were thought to be uncivilized and possibly even canibalistic due to the ferosity of these attacks and their lack of religion. Over time the term Heathen became a derogotory description of a non-religious person. Many a Heathen was burned at the stake for heresy.
- REDIRECT Paganism