The Theological Problem of Evil: Confronting Sin in a Divine Order

The existence of evil in a world purportedly created and sustained by an omnipotent, omniscient, and omnibenevolent God presents one of the most enduring and profound challenges to theology. This paradox, often termed the Problem of Evil, intensifies when we focus specifically on Sin – moral evil for which humanity is held responsible. How can a perfectly good God permit, or even create conditions for, the pervasive reality of human transgression, suffering, and separation from the divine? This pillar page delves into the multifaceted dimensions of Sin as it pertains to the Problem of Evil, exploring classical philosophical and theological responses from the foundational texts of Western thought. We will examine how thinkers have grappled with the nature of Good and Evil, the origins of Sin, and the profound implications for our understanding of God and humanity.

The Core Dilemma: God, Goodness, and the Origin of Evil

At the heart of the theological problem lies a seemingly irreconcilable tension:

  • If God is omnipotent (all-powerful), He has the ability to prevent all evil.
  • If God is omniscient (all-knowing), He is aware of all evil.
  • If God is omnibenevolent (all-good), He desires to prevent all evil.
  • Yet, evil (including Sin) exists.

This classic formulation, often attributed to Epicurus and refined by Lactantius, forces us to question the very attributes of God or the nature of evil itself. When we narrow our focus to Sin, the problem becomes even more acute, as it directly implicates human agency and moral responsibility within a divinely ordered cosmos.

  • Theological Perspective: From a theological standpoint, Sin is not merely an absence of good, but an active transgression against the divine will, a rebellion against the natural order established by God. It is a profound disruption of the relationship between Creator and creation.

(Image: A detailed classical painting depicting Adam and Eve's expulsion from the Garden of Eden, emphasizing their remorse and the angel's stern but sorrowful expression, symbolizing the immediate consequence of sin and the loss of innocence.)

Understanding Sin: Transgression, Separation, and Moral Failing

To properly address the theological problem, we must first define Sin within its specific context. Unlike natural evils (like earthquakes or disease), Sin is understood as moral evil, stemming from the choices and actions of sentient beings, particularly humans.

  • Biblical and Philosophical Roots: In the Great Books of the Western World, particularly the Abrahamic traditions, Sin is depicted as a fundamental turning away from God. From the narrative of Adam and Eve in Genesis to the Pauline epistles, Sin is presented as:
    • Transgression: A violation of divine law or commandment.
    • Separation: Alienation from God and from one's true self.
    • Falling Short: Missing the mark of divine perfection or humanity's intended purpose.
    • Rebellion: An act of defiance against the Creator's authority.

Categories of Sin

Theological traditions often categorize Sin to understand its scope and implications:

Category of Sin Description Key Philosophical/Theological Context
Original Sin The inherited corrupted nature or guilt resulting from the first sin of Adam and Eve. It affects all humanity, predisposing individuals to Sin. Augustine of Hippo extensively developed this doctrine, arguing that humanity's will became corrupted, making it incapable of choosing Good without divine grace. This concept is crucial for understanding why Sin is so pervasive.
Actual Sin Personal acts of sin committed by an individual, which can be further categorized. Thomas Aquinas discussed acts of sin against reason and God's eternal law. He differentiated between mortal and venial sins based on their gravity and impact on one's relationship with God.
Mortal Sin A grave sin that severs the individual's relationship with God and leads to eternal damnation if unrepented. It requires full knowledge, deliberate consent, and grave matter. Thomas Aquinas meticulously defined mortal sin, emphasizing its destructive power. It represents a fundamental rejection of God's goodness.

Video by: The School of Life

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