Christianity
Islam
Judaism
Hinduism
Buddhism
Sin & Redemption
The recognition that humans fall short of a higher standard — and the possibility of restoration — is central to religious anthropology. Whether called sin, transgression, ignorance, or karma, this universal diagnosis of the human condition is paired in every tradition with a path of healing, redemption, or enlightenment.
Across the World's Religions
Christianity
- Practice
- Hamartia (sin), redemption through Christ's atonement
- Key Text
- Romans 3:23; Isaiah 1:18; 1 John 1:9
Islam
- Practice
- Dhanb (sin), Tawbah (repentance and return to God)
- Key Text
- Quran 4:17-18, 39:53
Judaism
- Practice
- Chet (missing the mark), Teshuvah (repentance)
- Key Text
- Psalm 51; Lamentations 3:40
Hinduism
- Practice
- Papa (sin), Prayaschitta (atonement/expiation)
- Key Text
- Bhagavad Gita 18:66; Manu Smriti 11
Buddhism
- Practice
- Akusala (unwholesome acts), purification through practice
- Key Text
- Dhammapada 183; MN 61 (Ambalatthika-rahulovada)