sincretism

Syncretism is the process of blending different beliefs, practices, or ideas from various cultures or religions into a new, unified system. It often occurs when societies come into contact through trade, conquest, or cultural exchange, leading to the merging of traditions to adapt to new environments or populations. This process can result in new religious rituals, philosophies, or social customs that reflect a mixture of influences. Syncretism helps explain how diverse cultural elements can coexist and develop collectively, creating rich, hybrid practices that honor multiple origins.