syncretism

[ns_kumiho]

Well after a bit of a hiatus Pagan Prompt is back!

How do you view syncretism? What are your limits of using syncretism in your own beliefs

Comments

[zionmystic]

as a Christian who appreciates nature, I don't like the idea of Cernunnos and Pan being equated to Satan due to their associations with nature...I don't see nature as Satanic.

[nightshade_oak]

I really can't stand syncretism. I'm sure there are ways in which it can be done respectfully but I haven't seen it happen so far. I've just seen example after example of cultural misappropriation and disrespect for cultures, religions and the gods themselves.

You want to make your own religion? You want to draw from multiple sources? Fine, be eclectic, but do it responsibly. (Hint: some cultures are closed, some religions are closed, and some things cannot be understood outside their original cultural or religious context. You are not entitled to take anything you like simply because you like it. See Lakota Declaration of War.) Responsible eclecticism? A good thing. Taking two different, conflicting things and forcing them into a whole? Not a good thing

[nightshade_oak]

Haha, thanks! I was a trifle concerned I might get flamed for those thoughts, but damnit it needed to be said. It's not really said enough.

[verginiamus]

I think it has to do with the habit of monothesism and in particular Christianity to syncretise everything. Once people drift away from those religions and move into Paganism, it is hard to shake that habit of thought. Think of Wicca with the God and Goddess. It is hard to be a polythesist coming from that sort of background.