Reasons for formation of syncretic religious systems

The article describes the objective laws and causes of formation of religious systems of the syncretic nature. On the basis of systematic approach, the author studies the specific manifestations of some factors, causes and conditions which promote synthesis and integration of sometimes «antagonistic» religions. It is noted that the syncretism of such religious systems is possible either when related, similar in content components of religious systems come into contact or if it has a common mental framework though it is not always of religious one. When considering the complex of interrelated and interdependent causes of the syncretic religious systems formation, the author focuses on intra system reasons, among them a great value is given to the study of problems of violating the system integrity. But such factors as peculiarities of the region’s geopolitical location, military conflicts between people of different religions, missionary activity, cultural contacts, and interethnic marriages also play an important role for the formation of syncretic religions. The attention is drawn to the fact that the syncretism of religions can be on the one hand as a factor of transformation and evolution of certain religious systems, and on the other hand as a factor of originating of qualitatively new religions. The emphasis is made to the fact that the syncretism of religious systems should be considered both as a process and as a result.