Religious Pluralism and its MANY Definitions
Khaire Temple Patrons and Visitors!
Today I wanted to talk about the term 'Religious Pluralism' - it's many definitions - and how those definitions make it a bit tricky to use the term in simple conversation (inspired by this ask from @soft-sappy-sapphic )
1. Religious Pluralism from a Political Perspective - As Synonymous with Religious Diversity
"Religious diversity remains a descriptive term. It does not necessarily or automatically translate into religious coexistence or tolerance." - [Quote Source] [About the Quote's Author, Yael Siman]
Religious Diversity (and Religious Pluralism when used as its synonym) is a matter of fact. A term meant to express that there is a diverse presence of religious traditions within a given area or population. For example, saying that the majority of the current United States population identifies as Christian, with the second largest majority identifying as Unaffiliated with any religion [Source], is an example of Religious Diversity. It does not state anything about the religious tolerance or social influence these identifies have in society, it simply states the facts as we currently understand them.
When people use the term Religious Pluralism as being Religious Diversities synonym, they are trying to express the multitude (or plurality) of religious beliefs in existence. Be that generally among people or specifically within a defined population.
Final Thoughts: While you can use Religious Pluralism in this context, Religious Diversity or Religious Makeup are probably better terms to use for this kind of meaning.
2. Religious Pluralism from a Sociological Perspective - As Synonymous with Religious Inclusivity
"In reference to religion, the term “pluralism” [...] involves understanding the diverse religious groups in society for what they are, appreciating them and respecting them; it is a strategy for managing diversity." - [Quote Source] [About the Quote's Author, John Evans]
Religious Pluralism in the context of Sociology is more akin to Religious Inclusivism or Religious Acceptance. It is a framework in which diverse religious traditions and groups are treated as groups and entities equally deserving of respect and protection (both socially and legally). It builds on the facts provided by Religious Diversity, and inserts Sociologically concepts like equity and equality.
Final Thoughts: While you can use Religious Pluralism in this context, Religious Inclusivity or Religious Acceptance are probably better terms to use for this kind of meaning.
3. Religious Pluralism from a Singular Faith Perspective - As Synonymous with Intra-Religious Diversity
" [...] there are two different ‘levels’ of religious diversity: inter- and intra-religious diversity; the former ‘describes the degree of over-all diversity of distinct religions’, whereas the latter ‘encompasses the diversity found within a … religion’." - [Quote Source] [About the Quote's Author, Yu Tao]
Religious Pluralism in this context is specifically referencing how within a given religion or religious tradition, there is going to be variation. Some variations are simple, and seen as valid variation, such as doing or not doing the sign of the cross before entering a Roman Catholic Church pew. However other variations are more complex, and seen as a defining variation between different denominations/sects of a religion, such as the belief or disbelief in transubstantiation.
Specifically in reference to transubstantiation, this belief is one aspect (of many) that separates Catholics and Protestants. Both religious groups are still Christian, but this complex example of Religious Pluralism is part of what defines the separate denominations.
Final Thoughts: I personally think this is one of the best uses for Religious Pluralism - though if you want your intention and use to be as clear as possible, Intra-Religious Diversity is also a great choice.
4. Religious Pluralism from a Multi-Faith Perspective - As Synonymous with Multiple Religious Belonging
"Multiple religious belonging, also known as double belonging, refers to the idea that individuals can belong to more than one religious tradition." [Quote Source]
When used as a synonym for Multiple-Religious Belonging (also sometimes referred to as double belonging, dual faith, and interfaith practice), Religious Pluralism is used to highlight that a singular individual can have a plurality of belief and practice. What, to some, might be seen as a contradiction is instead a co-existence of distinct religions practiced by the same person.
For example, Hellenic Polytheism does not subscribe to Religious Exclusivism - it instead is very open to the idea of both Religious Pluralism and Religious Syncretism (as we see perfectly exemplified in Greco-Egyptian Polytheism). With this in mind, Religious Pluralism is very common among Hellenic Polytheists. I (Aön Re) myself fall into the category of someone who practices Religious Pluralism in this way. While I am primarily a Hellenic Polytheist, I do also engage with and practice Hinduism on occasion. Another great example of this is @bodhi-devotee - who is both a Hellenic Polytheist and a Buddhist.
There are certain religions where this gets a bit more tricky however, as monotheistic religions such as Christianity and Islam view this kind of Religious Pluralism as blasphemy. According to these religions texts and teachings - they are not compatible with Multiple Religious Belonging. That being said, not everyone agrees on such matters and so you will find (albeit rarely) Christians and other such religious individuals who do engage with Multiple Religious Belonging in this way.
Final Thoughts: When I use the term Religious Pluralism, this is typically what I am referring to. However, in an attempt to be more clear moving forward, I will probably include 'Multiple Religious Belonging' or 'MRB' in parenthesis when using Religious Pluralism in this way.
