Pagans, what attributes do you look for in an Elder of your tradition?

Question

Is there a name or title that is used to describe folks who have been in your tradition for a long time? How do they contribute to your tradition?

Answer 1

Elders (in terms of age) are generally called crones (female) or sages (male), at least in the circles I move in.

As for the Elder as teacher, I look for someone who has spent at least seven years as a Wiccan, living the religion and studying it intently. I find that people I consider Elders have a quality of inner balance, of centeredness, that makes them likely to think and act from a position of strength. They do not make hasty decisions and they have a deep well of knowledge to draw from. Others look to them instinctively, but they do not presume on this trust that is offered to them.

Answer 2

I have not accepted completely into a Pagan tradition, thought I have followed closely Kemetic. I have had the pleasure and honor of several Gods guiding me in the right direction.
I know a High Priestess. But other then that, I have never met anyone with a "rank" and I know alot of pagans.
I personally don't think there any rank but student and teacher, but not everyone follows that.
I enjoy anyone who knows what they are talking about. When they can answer you with things they can back up and talk about it with passion, not arrogance. It makes you want to learn about it too.

Answer 3

You know, I can't say as we actually have a term for that in CR. I mean, we've got obvious elders, for sure... but when Isaac Bonewitz referred to one as "the Archdruid of the folks who refuse to be called Druids," he almost sent this person into a tizzy. ::sighs:: Poor Isaac, he just doesn't get it. ::shrugs::

For attributes, I'd say a mix of knowledge and wisdom - the book-smarts to know what they're talking about, as well as the street-smarts and experience to make it work.

As to what they contribute? A *lot* - most of them are actively doing research, and then providing their research or answering questions about it. Reading a book from them is certainly helpful - but being able to approach them as an equal makes learning that much more active. They lead by doing, and get right there in the trenches with us - which shares the "ownership" of CR with all involved.

Answer 4

Elder women are called crones... not sure what the male counterpart is. I should know, my husband is approaching "that age." I don't follow a tradition. The elders/crones that we know are experienced in performing rituals and casting spells, as well as in healing, divination, and all manner of other areas. They are often consulted when we need to know how to do something, or need some clarification. They are indispensible!

Answer 5

Proven luck.

It's a bit difficult to explain, really, but it's the single most important attribute of a heathen leader. We don't mean "fortuitous coincidence" when we say Luck . . . it's more of a force or capacity for success.

We use Old Norse words for leaders---godhi, gythia, godhsmadhr, drighten.

Answer 6

Since there is no one in my "tradition" except me, I guess that makes me the elder. LOL

If there were a bunch of other people who thought just like me, (that would be a trip) we would be collegues I suppose. Sorry, that just seems like more of christian concept to me.

Answer 7

I can't stand the term "elder". Makes me think of pretentious fools who rest on their laurels. I take advice from people of all experience levels; even people who are realtively new can have valuable contributions.

Answer 8

Magus is the highest rank one can get,so far as I know.
I have never met such a man.

How can they contribute ?
-knowledge
-wisdom
-guidance
-support
-love

Answer 9

I look for.......

Wisdom
Happiness
Kindness
Contentment
Love
Peace

Because if they have all these things then they are truly walking their path!~And their would be much i could learn from them!
Blessed Be!
~Ariel~

Answer 10

pagan or paganism