Syncretism

Syncretism of an idea, religion, philosophy etc. creates a way for it to merge into a culture gently without disruption or protest and it Buddhisms case with favor. One of the reasons Buddhism spread so far was it's capability of syncretising. For example the Chan and Pure land people had little interest in learning and studying Buddhist texts, and therefore meditation, unswerving faith, etc. were emphasized in that area. In other words people could take out of Buddhism what they wanted and needed and Buddhism therefore provided a safe haven for people to turn to in times of need.