- Published: December 19, 2021
- Updated: December 19, 2021
- Level: Masters
- Language: English
- Downloads: 47
Syncretism Syncretism is the blending together of the traditions of different religions. For instance, Christianity and Judaism may be syncretized together due to some of the similarities that lie between them. There are some religions with many similarities while some others are a complete contrast of each other.
Islam and Confucianism are two such religions that are difficult to be syncretized together. Although, yes, both teach us to do good, both enjoin upon us good deeds and kindness, both tell us to respect our parents and elders and both teach us to be loyal.
However, the differences lie in the practicing of the religions. Confucianism does not go beyond establishing an ethical system. It is all about having a good behavior and that is it. Islam, however, has set of rules that are to be followed besides being good. Islam is a monotheist religion and it is a compulsion to pray five times a day to an Almighty God, who is the creator and maintainer of the universe. In Islam there are certain dos and don’ts; for instance, Muslims are not allowed to drink alcohol or eat pork, they have to abstain from pre-marital sex, and so on and so forth. Such rules are not found in Confucianism.
Besides the rules, Islam was brought on by Prophet Muhammad who was commanded by the one God to spread His message. A book, Holy Quran, was revealed upon him. No such happenings occurred in Confucianism, and it was founded by Confucius who preached his own teachings and advised people how to live their lives to the fullest and best.
Work Cited
Adler, Joseph A. Chinese Religious Traditions. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice Hall, 2002.