Original sin

Original sin is a Christian belief in the state of sin inherited by all human beings as a result of humanity's first disobedience to God. The doctrine is linked to the Fall of Man and is often used to explain the need for Jesus Christ's redemption.

Origin

The concept of original sin was first alluded to in the 2nd century by Irenaeus, Bishop of Lyon in his controversy with certain dualist Gnostics. Other church fathers such as Augustine also developed the doctrine, seeing it as based on the New Testament teaching of Paul the Apostle (Romans 5:12–21 and 1 Corinthians 15:22) and the Old Testament verse of Psalms 51:5.

Interpretations

Different Christian denominations interpret the doctrine of original sin differently. The Roman Catholic Church teaches that original sin is the fallen state of human nature into which all generations of people are born. The Eastern Orthodox Church rejects the concept of original sin in the Augustinian sense, instead teaching that the original sin is the first sin, the consequence of which has passed as a corrupt nature to all humanity.

Criticism

The doctrine of original sin has been criticized by various groups and individuals throughout history, including the Pelagians and modern liberal theologians. Some argue that it is unjust to condemn all humans for the sin of Adam and Eve. Others argue that it is incompatible with the concept of a loving God.

See also

• Fall of Man
• Immaculate Conception
• Total depravity

External links

• Catholic Encyclopedia: Original Sin
• Britannica Online Encyclopedia: Original Sin

Original sin Resources
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