Page:The Mohammedan system of theology (IA mohammedansyste00neal).pdf/253

 of Christianity. The Prophet of Arabia adds another to the list of failures in that point, where all systems of Religion and Philosophy evidenced their imbecility and inadequacy before him, viz. in pointing out hew sins are forgiven through a Mediator.

The Pagan superstitions retained some vestiges of this doctrine, derived from ancient tradition, and the Jewish Religion was one continued multiform type of a Redeemer and atonement through him; but the utmost power of man could not advance deeply into the subject, because it presupposes a knowledge of many things which can be acquired only by revelation,—such as the dreadful nature of sin,—the penalty sufficient to atone for it,—how the justice of God can be satisfied and rendered consistent with mercy in pardoning the offender.

Man is conscious to himself of transgression, that he has not loved his Maker with that