Exploring traditional concepts of sin and salvation, heavenand hell, Satan and evil, this remarkably accessible work focuses on how thesoul can escape from sin and advance spiritually, even in the afterlife and evenif one has lived a life of sin and unbelief.
From Sin to Salvation: The Ascent of the Soul examines the Bahá'à viewsas expressed in the authoritative Bahá'à texts regarding the origin and natureof sin and evil and the power of the individual soul to recognize and combatthese forces. In exploring these weighty concepts, author John S. Hatcher discusseswhat constitutes sin, analyzes how sinful acts affect our lives, both here andhereafter, and, most significantly, reviews what the Bahá'à writings say about theattainment of salvation, even for those who enter the next world without havingexercised due diligence in monitoring their spiritual well-being.
In addition to these broader theological and philosophicalquestions, Hatcher analyzes specific religious practices dealing withcontrition, atonement, penance, and salvation. Briefly, From Sin to Salvation does not dwell too long in the realm ofabstraction, but deals with very practical concerns, such as whether or notguilt is an unhealthy institutionalized invention--as many believe--or, instead,a valuable source of information whereby we can take charge of our spiritualprogress through a systematic review of our actions in relation to ourexpectations. Perhaps most critically, Hatcher attempts to resolve the age-olddilemma as to whether "sinners" ultimately do more harm to themselves than theycan ever inflict on others.