What is original sin?

Original sin is the fallen condition inherited by every human being from our first parents. It is a real deprivation of original holiness and justice, not a personal sinful act committed by each newborn child.

What happened at the beginning. God created the first human beings good, in friendship with Him and in harmony within themselves, with each other, and with creation. Tempted by the devil, they distrusted God and freely disobeyed Him (Gen 3:1-19; CCC 397-400). Their sin brought the loss of sanctifying grace, disorder into human nature, suffering, and death. Through one man’s disobedience, sin entered the world, but through Christ’s obedience grace and righteousness are offered to humanity (Rom 5:12-19).

What we inherit. Original sin is transmitted with human nature to every descendant of Adam and Eve. The Church describes this transmission as a mystery, not as God personally blaming children for Adam’s choice (CCC 404). Original sin is called “sin” by analogy. In us it is a state, the absence of the original holiness we should possess, rather than a personal act for which we individually chose guilt (CCC 405). Human nature remains good, but it is wounded. Our intellect is darkened, our will is weakened, and we experience disordered desires called concupiscence.

How Christ heals it. Jesus is the new Adam. By His death and Resurrection, He conquered the sin and death brought by the first Adam (1 Cor 15:21-22, 45). Baptism applies Christ’s saving grace to the person. It forgives all sin, including original sin, and makes the baptized person an adopted child of God and a member of Christ (CCC 1263). This is one reason the Church baptizes infants. They have committed no personal sins, but they still need the new life that only Christ gives (CCC 1250).

Why struggle remains after Baptism. Baptism removes original sin and restores sanctifying grace, but it does not remove every consequence of the fall. Suffering, death, weakness, and concupiscence remain as part of the Christian’s spiritual battle (CCC 1264). Concupiscence itself is not a sin unless a person freely consents to a disordered desire. With grace, prayer, the sacraments, and disciplined choices, Christians can resist temptation and grow in holiness.

When you notice weakness or repeated temptation, do not conclude that grace has failed. Turn to Christ, receive the sacraments faithfully, and ask the Holy Spirit to strengthen what human nature cannot heal by itself.