The Objection
Judaism does not accept the doctrine of original sin—the idea that all humans inherit Adam's guilt. Each person is responsible for their own sins, and repentance (teshuvah) is sufficient for forgiveness. There is no need for a divine savior to die for humanity's sins.
Key Claims
Each person responsible for own sins
Repentance brings forgiveness
No inherited guilt from Adam
Human sacrifice is forbidden
Jewish theology
Christian Response
How apologists address this objection
While individual responsibility is affirmed, the Hebrew Bible teaches universal human sinfulness and the need for atonement through sacrifice.
Genesis 8:21: 'The intention of man's heart is evil from his youth'
Psalm 51:5: 'In sin did my mother conceive me'—David acknowledges inherited sinful nature
Psalm 143:2: 'No one living is righteous before you'—universal need for grace
The sacrificial system demonstrates sin requires blood atonement (Leviticus 17:11)
Isaiah 53 describes a righteous servant bearing the sins of many—vicarious atonement
John Piper, Counted Righteous in Christ