Syncretism is a harmonization or attempted blending of various religions, cultures, and philosophies to work together. Syncretism in the context of religion frequently exists when foreign beliefs are familiarized to a native belief system and the teachings are harmonized. The new, blended religion then has a shape of its own. This has been witnessed most evidently in Buddhism history. Cultures, political and economic aspects of some regions have been fused within Buddhism. It might be suggestive that Buddhism is a syncretic religion since it evidently has some similar elements to Hinduism and Jainism. Some of these features are apparent in rebirth, the concept of karma, their monks have orange robes and shaven heads, an inclination to non-violent practices and cremation (Chia, 2016). Mahayana Buddhism also uses beads or rosaries in the same way as the Hindu does.
In most Buddhist cultures, many people show their devotion to Buddha through conducting themselves in a designated way. They have to pay pilgrimage to sacred places, visit local temples, make sacrifices to the monks, and make sacrifices to Buddha idols they have created in their home shrines. They are careful not to harm any living thing without cause. They are not allowed to take or acquire anything that is not given. They cannot abuse their mind or body by engaging in substance and alcohol abuse. It is also not permitted to speak aimlessly in a way that they speak either lies or harmful words. Lastly, are not allowed to engage in unlawful or unfaithful sexual behavior (Kiblinger, 2017). All Buddhists will show their commitment by adhering these precepts. According to Buddhist teachings, the word “divine” means that which is sacred. One cannot separate the spiritual and the physical aspects of life. Buddhists believe that their own life is the platform of the highest value or the divine and they are cognizant of the fact that lives of other people are another domain for value and the divine. They do not worship any gods or God but focus on their own lives. Therefore, they are focused on purifying their heart and letting go all desires.
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Historically, the Buddhist monks in South Vietnam objected the government during the time of war by setting fire on themselves. They were doing so that they would not hurt anyone else, an aspect that had a tremendous effect on those that were witnessing that conflict. Socially, other psychologists use Buddhist techniques to inspire people (Kiblinger, 2017). Their terms are incorporated in the day-to-day speeches in many contexts like gardens. As far as the environmental aspect is concerned, the global community has been influenced by the exile of Tibetan Buddhists and the support of their intentions. The philosophies encouraged in Buddhism are compatible with scientific advancements that are happening in our environment.
Culturally, men and women are observed as equal entities but with different roles. This aspect is appreciated by many societies who are still fighting for equality between men and women. Hereditarily, the children are born and nurtured with an attitude not to hurt anyone (Chia, 2016). They would rather suffer in place of someone else. For instance, the non-violent nature that was exhibited by the Buddhists in the past Vietnam War. This hereditary characteristic had been acquired genetically since most people would react violently in many circumstances. All these influences have contributed to a syncretized religion.
In conclusion, syncretism is many religious systems other than Buddhism. The religions are fusing multiple varying belief systems, and are consistently developing as the philosophies of man rise or discarded in approval. Syncretism depends on the whim of man and how Buddhism could be blended to be embraced in the all the domains of the society.
References
Chia, J. M. T. (2016). Chinese Buddhism in Catholic Philippines: Syncretism as Identity, written by Ari C. Dy, SJ. Social Sciences and Missions , 29 (3-4), 396-398.
Kiblinger, K. B. (2017). Buddhist Inclusivism: Attitudes Towards Religious Others . Routledge.
