Analities-deskriptiewe oorsig van die gebruik van die term sinkretisme: “Die definisie van die probleem en die probleem met die definisie”

Abstract

An analytic-descriptive overview of the use of the term syncretism: “The definition of the problem and the pro-blem with the definition”

Contemplating syncretism entails defining the concept. Definitions of syncretism are many and diverse. This fact does not only suggest a problem with the definition, but also contributes to the perplexity of the issue. Various strategies may be followed to break the impasse: redefining syncretism, abolishing the term or acceptance of a plurality of perspectives. The article aims to illuminate the complexity of syncretism, as well as attempting to reach a useable definition. It proposes a neutral approach and way of defining this complex concept.