Episode 7 – Pāpa ≠ Sin
Introduction
In most English dictionaries, sin is defined as a transgression of divine law, particularly within the Christian tradition. It implies a moral failing or offense against God’s commandments, often linked to guilt, punishment, and the need for redemption. The word sin has been commonly used to translate the Sanskrit word pāpa, but this is a misleading and inaccurate translation, as the concept of pāpa in Hindu thought is fundamentally different in origin, context, and purpose.
Origins of the Word
The English word “sin” comes from a Germanic root, used to describe violations of divine law. This concept entered the European lexicon around the 6th century CE, during the Christianization of Europe. In Judaism, sin is defined as a violation of the 613 commandments given in the Hebrew Bible, and in Christianity, this evolved to include violations of the Ten Commandments and church teachings. Sin, in this framework, is inherently theocentric, rooted in the idea of a covenant between God and the people (e.g., the covenant of circumcision with Abraham).
Why We Should Avoid Using the Word
Using “soul” to translate the Sanskrit word ātman is problematic for several reasons:
- In Christian theology, the soul is tied to God breathing life into humans, and is often seen as the emotional and moral seat of a person.
- It is frequently confused or conflated with “spirit,” though the two are distinct in many Christian texts.
- The Abrahamic understanding includes a judgment-based afterlife (heaven/hell), which does not align with the broader and more nuanced perspectives found in Dharma traditions.
Dharma traditions distinguish between prāṇa (life force or breath), manas (mind), buddhi (intellect), and ātman, which is the eternal Self—a much deeper and metaphysically rich concept than the Western notion of soul.
What’s a Better Word or Translation
Rather than “sin,” the more accurate translations for pāpa include:
- Error or Mistake – the most literal and linguistically consistent.
- Bad judgment or harmful action – when contextual nuance is needed.
- Impeding action – actions that hold us back spiritually or ethically.
These alternatives maintain fidelity to Hindu worldviews, which emphasize learning, accountability, and spiritual growth, rather than divine offense and punishment.
