Original Sin and Atonement from an Islamic Perspective

Islam declares that:

People cannot transfer their responsibilities to saviours or saints. Each person’s redemption and salvation depends upon his or her own deeds.

Forgiveness of sins (salvation) can only be attained through repentance to Allah and sincere and persistent efforts to fight off evil and do good. Allah forgives the faults and sins of those in whom He sees real goodness and those who have turned away from their sins and reformed themselves - without punishing them or any other person on their behalf.

In numerous verses in the Qur’an and statements of Prophet Muhammad (blessings and peace be upon him), it is mentioned that those who repent are granted forgiveness from sins; furthermore, their sins are replaced with an equivalent reward, and:

“…And no fear will there be concerning them, nor will they grieve.” (Qur’an, Surah Al-Baqarah, 2: 112)

In many verses of the Noble Qur’an, Allah Almighty calls on people to repent sincerely. 

“[O Muhammad], inform My slaves that it is I who am the Forgiving, the Merciful and that it is My punishment which is the painful punishment.” (Qur’an, Surah Al-Hijr, 15: 49-50)

Here, Allah is inviting the sinners to repent; regardless of the magnitude of their sins, He will forgive them. At the same time, He is warning those who do not repent: no punishment can be compared to His punishment.

He has also said:

“Say: O My slaves who have transgressed against themselves [by sinning], do not despair of the mercy of Allah. Indeed, Allah forgives all sins. Indeed, it is He who is the Forgiving, the Merciful. And return [in repentance] to your Lord and submit to Him before the punishment comes upon you; then you will not be helped.” (Qur’an, Surah Az-Zumar, 39: 53-54)

See how beautifully, soundly and logically, the book of Allah, the Qur’an, addresses the issue of sinning and atonement.

It must be noted that Islam confirms that the Islamic approach to the subject was revealed in all the divine messages, including the message of Jesus Christ. May peace and blessings be upon him and all the prophets!