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Christian Hamartiology and the Islamic Doctrine of Sin: A Comparative Analysis INTRODUCTION The following paper compares Christian and Islamic perspectives on the concept of sin by analyzing passages from the Bible and the Qur'an. Section 1 approximates a definition of sin and what types of sin each text recognizes. Section 2 contains a comparison between different notions of repentance/reparation for sins committed. Section 3 discusses how Christian and Muslim interpretations of their respective sacred texts account for the problem of evil. A conclusion is then offered, based on the analysis made in the three prior sections. DISCUSSION Types of Sin. A sufficiently adequate definition for the concept of sin is in order, before an attempt is made at supplying any typology of sins. Now, since this is a comparative analysis, the concept will be provided from the Christian and Muslim views respectively. Thereby, it will be possible to notice similarities and differences between both traditions. The Bible offers several sources for understanding sin. If one turns to 1 John 3:4, one finds that “Everyone who sins breaks the law; in fact, sin is lawlessness.” So, trespassing by breaking the divine law is at least one way in which Christianity understands sin. In other words, “God gave humanity His laws to show us His way of love. Those laws define how we demonstrate love to God and our fellowman” (Ashley). It is then to be inferred that love of God and our fellow human beings are best expressed through the obedience to God's laws. It further implies that motivation for obeying divine commands is love rather than fear or convenience. Indeed, 1 John 3:11
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