The Subject of Original Sin

Sin is in the soul, not the body; hence original sin isin the soul. The defects, weaknesses, and tendencies of the flesh which come from original sin are punishments, not guilt. When actual sin occurs because of bodily tendencies, it is really committed by man through his will. The flesh of itself does not sin, nor has it the guilt of sin.

Original sin primarily affects the very nature of man.It is in the essence of the soul rather than in the powers of the soul.

Through the soul’s essence original sin infects the soul’s powers. It strikes first at the will. The will is these at of appetency, and it is the source of man’s first inclination to sin.

In the subordinate powers, the infection of original sin is most apparent in the generative power, the appetites, andthe sense of touch.