Syncretism

Syncretism is the attempt to reconcile disparate, even opposing, beliefs and to meld practices of various schools of thought. It is especially associated with the attempt to merge and analogize several originally discrete traditions, especially in the theology and mythology of religion, and thus assert an underlying unity.

Social and political roles

Overt syncretism in folk belief is a sign of cultural acceptance of an alien or previous tradition, but the "other" cult may survive or infiltrate without authorized syncresis nevertheless.

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An example is the fact that some Conversos developed a sort of cult for martyrs who were victims of the Spanish Inquisition, thus incorporating elements of Catholicism while resisting it.

Related Topics:
Converso - Spanish Inquisition

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Some religious movements through history have embraced overt syncretism, while others have strongly rejected it as devaluing precious and genuine distinctions. The adoption of Shinto elements by Buddhism is an example of the former; post-Exile Judaism and Islamism are examples of the latter.

Related Topics:
Shinto - Buddhism - Exile - Judaism - Islamism

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Syncretism tends to facilitate coexistence and constructive interaction between different cultures, a factor that has recommended it to rulers of multi-ethnic realms. Conversely the rejection of syncretism, usually in the name of "piety" and "orthodoxy", helps generate and authorize a sense of cultural unity.

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