Atonement - IGCSE Religious Studies Definition

What is atonement?

In IGCSE Religious Studies, atonement refers to the reconciliation between God and humanity, often through the forgiveness of sins. In Christianity, atonement is central to the belief that Jesus’ death and resurrection restored the broken relationship between humans and God, paying the price for sin. 

Different Christian perspectives on atonement include substitutionary atonement, where Jesus takes the punishment for humanity’s sins, and moral influence theory, which sees Jesus’ sacrifice as an example of divine love. Atonement is especially significant in Christian teachings on salvation, emphasising God’s mercy and the importance of repentance and faith.

In Judaism, the term atonement also means reconciliation between God and humanity. Jews repent and ask God for forgiveness at the festival of Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement. They believe that God will make his final judgment at Yom Kippur sometime in the future (Leviticus 16:30)

Religious Studies Revision Resources to Ace Your Exams

Learn about the meaning and significance of atonement in Christianity and Judaism by using our detailed revision notes

Atonement in Christianity - GCSE AQA revision notes 

Atonement in Christianity - GCSE Edexcel revision notes

Atonement in Judaism - GCSE AQA revision notes

Explore the IGCSE Religious Studies revision resources