1. Syncretism

2. As defined
“The combination of different forms of belief or practice” Marriam-Webster
“Reconciliation or fusion of differing systems of belief, as in philosophy or religion, especially when success is partial or the result is heterogeneous.” The American Heritage Dictionary
“The combining of different (often contradictory) beliefs, often while melding practices of various schools of thought.” Wikipedia
The mixing of two or more religions that creates unique rituals, artwork and beliefs

4. Hachiman Japanese mythology God of archery and war
Incorporating elements of Shinto and Buddhism
Also worshiped by peasants as god of agriculture
Fused elements of kami worship he became Great Bodhisattva in 8th century

5. Two types to consider Syncretism from Above Syncretism from Below
The conscious decisions of religious authorities to incorporate native elements in their attempt to bring new adherents into the fold.
The powerful will use the existing and indigenous beliefs to their advantage to aid in the spread of the powerfulsí belief system
The ways in which people incorporate elements from other religions more or less spontaneously.
Sometimes consciously other times not
Usually there is a power dynamic with the less powerful encountering a more powerful group

6. Mosque in Cordoba, Spain
The epitome of syncretism in the Islamic World. An historic church (built by Visigoths)
The mosque in Cordoba, Spain
-originally a church built by Visigoths
--the Moors purchased it after conquest
--became a grand mosque for Muslim state of Al-Andalus in Spain
--elements of both Christianity and Islam are still evident
--cathedral bells + direction of Mecca on one of walls
Architecture mixes Moorish/European elements

7. Roman Catholicism in the Atlantic World
Worked both from the top down and from the bottom up.
Indigenous populations and African Populations interacted with Roman Catholicism in new ways.
Top down efforts were led by the Jesuits in efforts to sustain and convert native populations

8. The Virgin of Guadalupe
After Spanish conquest ( ) a temple to mother-goddess Tonantzin was destroyed (outside Mexico City)
A chapel dedicated to Virgin Mary was built there
Juan Diego saw an apparition on the slopes and a vision of a girl--she was said to perform miracles and created an image
Early accounts were recorded in native language (Nahuatl)
Juan Diego named a saint
Church commended the worship (of the Virgin )
A shift in worship away from Tonantzin

9. Pope John Paul II--1987
“The early encounter between your traditional cultures and the European way of life was a harsh and painful reality for your peoples I encourage you, as Native people to preserve and keep alive your cultures, your languages, the values and customs which have served you well in the past and which provide a solid foundation for the future These things benefit not only yourselves but the entire human family. This sharing of cultural riches must include the Church native cultures are called to participate in and enhance.”

10. Yoruba from Nigeria Many sold into slavery and traded to Caribbean
Carried with them intricate systems of worship/focused on Orisha
Orisha acted as intermediaries between people and supreme god
Required to be baptized as Catholics if slaves
The veneration of Catholic saints acted as a bridge between the two belief systems.
Saints= rishas
Feast days were shifted
Yoruba adapted the necessary superficial practices to maintain their own beliefs
Became known as Santeria

11. Santaria items