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Definition:
The process of syncretism (Greek for "draw together" or
"combine,"), in a religious context, involves the mixing of element from
different and independent religious traditions in the creation of a new belief system.
Thus, a religion is said to be "syncrectic" in nature when it uses elements from more
than one religious tradition. From within an established religious tradition, the
label "syncretic" is often used in a negative sense because the mixing of elements is
often regarded as something which reduces the "purity" of the original, and true,
religious belief system.
Also Known As: none
Alternate Spellings: none
Common Misspellings: none
Related Resources:
What is the Philosophy of Religion?
Sometimes confused with theology, the Philosophy of Religion is the philosophical study of religious beliefs, religious doctrines, religious arguments and religious history. The line between theology and the philosophy of religion isn't always sharp, but the primary difference is that theology tends to be apologetical in nature, committed to the defense of particular religious positions, whereas Philosophy of Religion is committed to the investigation of religion itself, rather than the truth of any particular religion.
