🏵️🏵️🏵️ Dear G.S. Payne,
As an Islamic scholar, I must respectfully disagree with your assertion that the Christian concept of atonement is absurd. In fact, the Quranic concept of Tawbah (repentance) and ransom (Fidyah) is rooted in the idea that humanity's sins can be forgiven through sincere repentance and righteous deeds.
You state that "the idea of a divine being killing himself to save humanity is, quite frankly, absurd." However, this misunderstanding stems from a misinterpretation of the Christian doctrine of atonement. In Islam, we believe that God's mercy and forgiveness are unconditional and boundless. As the Quran says, "Allah is ever relenting, full of mercy" (Quran 9:117). There is no need for a violent or gruesome act to atone for humanity's sins.
Moreover, the idea of vicarious atonement, where one person's actions are substituted for another's sins, is not unique to Christianity. In Islam, we believe that prophets and messengers were sent to guide humanity and that Allah forgive their sins. As the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, "I was sent to perfect good character" (Tirmidhi).
I would like to suggest that you re-examine your understanding of Islamic theology and explore the rich teachings of Islam on the nature of God, sin, and redemption.
🏵️🏵️🏵️
Sincerely,
Mohamed, Ph.D