soteriology n : the branch of Christian theology that deals with salvation as the effect of a divine agency

English

Etymology

From Ancient Greek ‘salvation’.

Pronunciation

/səʊtɪəɹɪˈɒlədʒi/

Noun

1. The study or doctrine of salvation.

Soteriology is branch of theology that deals with salvation. It is derived from the Greek sōtērion (salvation) (from sōtēr savior, preserver) + English -logy. The term itself can be used to refer to any kind of religion, and no saviour figure or figures are required. Soteriology is a key factor that distinguishes religion from philosophy.

Christian soteriology specifically deals with how Jesus' life and death brings salvation to people. The Roman Catholic view is that man greatly insulted God and that Jesus' death pays the debt to justice. Roman Catholics believe that they receive this justice through sanctifying grace in the sacrament of baptism. These beliefs are based in the Bible, one of the main passages being John 3:14:

"The Son of man must be lifted up, that whosoever believeth in Him may not perish, but may have life everlasting."

See also

• Christian soteriology
• Buddhology
• Krishnology
• Moksha
• Salvation
• Moksa
• Nirvana
• Sach Khand

References