Online Reference For Body, Mind & Spirit

Term: Syncretism

DEFINITION:

The combination of different—sometimes widely different or even seemingly contradictory—beliefs, concepts, traditions, schools of thought, myths, theology, etc., into a singular system of belief acceptable to followers of the syncretic tradition. Syncretism is often seen in the development of religions over time. Some modern Wiccans have created new traditions that are collections of beliefs from a variety of spiritual paths. This has been a cause for some criticism by those who would claim that such syncretism "lacks authenticity." Syncretism, also known as eclecticism, is also found in fine arts, music, science, and even politics.