Religious Syncretism

Religious syncretism occurs when the characteristics of two or more faiths blend to alter one of the faiths, or to create a completely new religion. This is usually the result of cultural diffusion, when a new religious worldview encounters the established set of sacred precepts already present in a given region. The process of syncretization, or the incorporation of new rituals, dogma, or concepts, may be voluntary or enforced. The process of religious syncretism frequently leads to alterations in the sacred space of a location, as new religious structures may be built, or existing ones changed to suit the changes brought about by the integration of new beliefs. This may involve the establishment of entirely new sacred locations, or it may mean the use of previous sacred spaces, but with a modification of their former characteristics, relevance, or importance in the new religious system.

Religious syncretism is often viewed by at least some believers as a threat to the “purity” of religion, and an attack on orthodoxy and tradition. Those who support the syncretic process are sometimes labeled heretics and accused of undermining the principles of the faith. However, most faiths indicate at least some ideas or practices that have been borrowed from other religious traditions, and the process of religious syncretism may be so subtle and lengthy that it is not recognized by believers. On the other hand, some faiths have been specifically created on the basis of incorporating the “best” elements from others.