What does Soteriology study?

Soteriology is the branch of theology that focuses specifically on the study of salvation. It examines the nature of salvation, the means by which it is achieved, and the implications for individuals and communities. This includes exploring various religious beliefs and doctrines regarding how salvation is accessed, the role of grace, faith, and works, as well as the transformative process that individuals undergo in their spiritual journeys.

While beliefs about the afterlife may be relevant in some religious traditions, they are not the central focus of soteriology. Similarly, the origins of religious texts and the role of faith in healing pertain to other areas of religious study, such as biblical studies and pastoral care, respectively. Soteriology specifically addresses how individuals or groups attain salvation, distinguishing it as a crucial aspect of religious philosophy and practice.