syncretism (noun) is the combining of different beliefs and various schools of thought. Syncretism involves the merging or assimilation of several originally discrete traditions, especially in the theology and mythology of religion, thus asserting an underlying unity and allowing for an inclusive approach to other faiths.
Syncretize—(verb) 1. attempt to reconcile or amalgamate (differing things, especially religious beliefs, cultural elements, or schools of thought); 2. syncretize (verb) an attempt to unite and harmonize especially without critical examination or logical unity. Example: “Diana, in Roman religion, Goddess of wild animals and the hunt, with syncretized with the Greek Goddess Artemis.”
From the 1990s to early 2010s, there were "theological debates" aka "theological discussions" between "hard polytheists" & "soft polytheists". In particular, there was a disagreement about syncretizing aka identifying deities from different pantheons with each other. Example: “In ancient Rome, the Italian Goddess Diana was syncretized with the Greek Goddess Artemis, Goddess of wild animals and the hunt.”
Many "hard polytheists" disapproved and disagreed with 20th and 21st century Neo-Pagans of not only embracing the practice of syncretism, but then applying it willy-nilly to sundry ancient deities.
The "hard polytheists" argued—rather reasonably—that most of these historical syncretizations were for purely political reasons, as such they had little to do with the correct veneration of the Gods.
Nevertheless, "The Greek magical papyri" dating from the 2nd century b.c.e. to the 5th century c.e. is a collection of magical spells and formulas, hymns, and rituals from Greco-Roman Egypt, and contains numerous examples of syncretism.
Syncretism—(noun) is the combining of different beliefs and various schools of thought. Syncretism involves the merging or assimilation of several originally discrete traditions, especially in the theology and mythology of religion, thus asserting an underlying unity and allowing for an inclusive approach to other faiths.
Syncretize—(verb) 1. attempt to reconcile or amalgamate (differing things, especially religious beliefs, cultural elements, or schools of thought); 2. syncretize (verb) an attempt to unite and harmonize especially without critical examination or logical unity. Example: “Diana, in Roman religion, Goddess of wild animals and the hunt, with syncretized with the Greek Goddess Artemis.”
This brings me to the second RAQ (Rarely Asked Question) in the post:
RAQ: Why should we even care??
Wicca leans toward the practice of syncretism. At Neo-Pagan events folks ought to realize—that as attendees of these events—WE WILL run into all manner of folks: ceremonial magicians, reconstructionist Pagans, henotheists, Pagan Unitarian Universalists (CUUP’s members), monists, soft polytheists, and hard polytheists. Rather than argue or debate, listen. You don’t have to agree. If you reaaally disapprove of their theology, or their practices, nod once and walk away. If you believe genuine criminal activity is involved, maybe you should report it.
RAQ: Rarely Asked Questions
"Yet Another Wiccan..." home page