Atonement

Atonement is the process of making amends for a wrong, seeking reconciliation between individuals or with the divine. In religious and ethical contexts it denotes forgiveness, purification, and the restoration of harmony after offense. The term comes from Old English atone, meaning "at-one-ment."

In Judaism, Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, is the holiest day of the year, dedicated to repentance, prayer, and fasting. Atonement is sought through confession, acts of repentance and restitution. In ancient times it also included sacrifices; today emphasis remains on sincere repentance and ethical conduct.

In Christianity, atonement refers to the reconciliation of humanity with God through Jesus Christ's life, death, and resurrection. Theologies differ: substitutionary (penal) atonement, Christus Victor, and moral influence. These ideas shape beliefs about salvation, worship, and sacraments across denominations.

In Islam, forgiveness arises from tawba (repentance) and righteous deeds. Atonement is not centered on a single sacrifice; it rests on turning to God, seeking mercy, and performing prescribed acts. Expiation (kaffarah) may apply to certain sins.

Other traditions offer related ideas. Hinduism emphasizes prāyaścitta (penance) and purification to mend karmic harm; Buddhism stresses ethical reform and karma as paths to harmony.

In modern culture, Atonement is the title of Ian McEwan's 2001 novel, which was adapted into a 2007 film.