Brazilian religious syncretism

Brazilian religious syncretism is the blending of diverse spiritual traditions, primarily Indigenous beliefs, African religions like Candomblé and Umbanda, and Christianity. This process occurred as different groups interacted and adapted their practices under social and historical pressures, especially during colonization and slavery. Themes, deities, and rituals were combined, allowing practitioners to preserve cultural identities while embracing new faiths. For example, African deities were often associated with Catholic saints, creating a seamless integration of spiritual worlds. This syncretism results in a rich, pluralistic religious landscape where multiple traditions coexist and influence one another.