[Bill Ferny]

A quick definition of original sin (I’m writing this off the cuff, so please pardon any mistakes):

Simply put, original sin is the sin of Adam. It doesn’t really matter if you think there was actually a man named Adam or not. It is the primordial sin of the human race, a primordial choice for lesser goods over the greater Good (such choice for lesser goods, by the way, is contrary to human nature).

Original sin is not something that affects only human beings and their relationship with God, though it did primarily bring about an irrevocable separation from God. Humans, as the apex of creation, the microcosm of the universe, irreparably damaged all of creation via the primordial sin, ended the harmonious condition of original justice, brought suffering into the world, and brought about violent death (which became a rending of the human person) and corruption of the body.

Original sin brings with it two aspects: irrevocable separation from God, and the irreparable damage to creation. The first aspect is the censure of original sin, the second is the condition of original sin (suffering, doubt, corruption, violent death, etc.). The work of Christ relieves us of the first aspect, and makes it possible for us to find union with the Divine. We will be relieved of the condition of original sin at the Parosia when heaven will descend on earth.