Chapter 4 Wrap Up

STEP ONE

The Word to Know: Syncretism

Question

The Oxford English Dictionary defines syncretism as “attempted union or reconciliation of diverse or opposite tenets or practices, esp. in philosophy or religion.” Using the word syncretism, speculate how the spread of any of the religions discussed in Chapter 4 could result in syncretism of religions in different areas. For example, in Axum, Christian worship integrated African drums, instruments, and other local elements. Your answer should be a paragraph in length.