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Original sin in dramatic Theology

Original sin is one of the most relevant and central themes in theology. From antiquity to the present day, it has been the subject of numerous considerations. The topic of sin and its origin has been dealt with in theological, social and scientific disciplines and remains more than ever a topical, existential, permanent and recurring area of enquiry. In the current social context, which is characterised by numerous health, security and natural crises, it seems appropriate to attempt a reflection on the topic of original sin in connection with dramatic theology. This is the theological approach already developed by the theologian Raymund Schwager. The aim of this research project is to deepen this approach in the light of René Girard's mimetic theory on the one hand and in connection with the soteriological problem of original sin as developed by James Alison on the other.

Motivation for choosing the topic

• From a personal point of view: questioning responsibility for sin or evil based on individual faith. The variety of hypotheses that lead to a deeper examination of the doctrine of original sin.
• From a theological point of view: the feared loss of awareness of sin and moral permissiveness, which call the future of humanity into question. The identification of a subversive hermeneutic that leads to the defence of the doctrine of original sin and associated dogmas.

The problem

In view of man's inability to contain both sin and violence, the following questions inevitably arise: What is the cause of conflicts? Where does evil or sin come from? Why are people always confronted with a distortion of their desires that they must overcome? This is the crux of the matter, which refers to the constant ‘why’ in the context of experiences of suffering.

Aims

• To shed more light on the question of the origin of evil or sin in the world through the anthropological approach of original sin.
• To show that original sin is not only a hereditary evil, but must also be understood and interpreted in the light of the resurrection of Christ.
• Interpret the doctrine of original sin from a threefold perspective - human, natural and supernatural - of evil.
• Identify pastoral perspectives in relation to certain contemporary crises, in particular that of terrorism in Burkina Faso.

Methodology

The focus is on a monographic method consisting of the following elements:

1. Receptive study of specifically selected works with a view to hermeneutic analysis.
2. A critical look at various receptions with the aim of a synthetic systematisation.
3. Orientation towards concrete pastoral perspectives as a possible answer to the big question of sin and its origin.

Literatur

Alison, James. Le péché originel à la lumière de la Résurrection. Paris: Les Editions du Cerf. 2009.

Girard, René. De la violence à la Divinité. Paris: Editions Grasset & Fasquelle. 2007.

Schwager, Raymund. Erbsünde und Heilsdrama. Münster: Lit Verlag. 1997.