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The problem of evil is acute in monotheistic religions such as Christianity, Islam, and Judaism whose religion is based on such a God. [6] [7] However, the question of "why does evil exist?" has also been studied in religions that are non-theistic or polytheistic, such as Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism.
Evil, according to Clement, does not exist as a positive, but exists as a negative or as a "lack of good". [65] Clement's idea was criticised for its inability to explain suffering in the world, if evil did not exist. He was also pressed by Gnostics scholars with the question as to why God did not create creatures that "did not lack the good".
A defence attempts to demonstrate that the occurrence of evil does not contradict God's existence, but it does not propose that rational beings are able to understand why God permits evil. A theodicy shows that it is reasonable to believe in God despite evidence of evil in the world and offers a framework which can account for why evil exists. [8]
This still leaves the question of why God set out those people's lives (or the negative choice of deeds) which result in Hell, and why God made it possible to become evil. In Islamic thought, evil is considered to be movement away from good, and God created this possibility so that humans are able to recognize good. [ 43 ]
In some sources the character of Satan, too, is equated with the human psychological inclination for evil (in contrast to the fallen angel of traditional Christianity). [17] People have the ability to master their evil inclination (Genesis 4:7) and choose good over evil (Psalm 37:27). [18]
Such sins are described as removal from God's presence. The devil's sin does not give evil a positive value, since evil is, according to Augustinian theodicy, merely a byproduct of creation. The spirits have all been created in the love of God, but the devil valued himself more, thereby abandoning his position for a lower good.
Laws requiring the eradication of evil, sometimes using violent means, exist in the Jewish tradition. However, Judaism also contains peaceful texts and doctrines . [ 1 ] [ 2 ] There is often a juxtaposition of Judaic law and theology to violence and nonviolence by groups and individuals.
Criticism of Christianity has a long history which stretches back to the initial formation of the religion in the Roman Empire.Critics have challenged Christian beliefs and teachings as well as actions taken in name of the faith, from the Crusades to modern terrorism.