Why do humans need saving according to soteriology?

In soteriology, the study of salvation, the belief that humans need saving is fundamentally tied to the concept of addressing the inherent human condition and the need for redemption. This perspective holds that due to the implications of sin, separation from the divine, or existential struggles, individuals find themselves in need of a restorative process that reconciles them with their spiritual state and with God.

The focus on redemption stems from the understanding that humans, by nature, experience moral, spiritual, and sometimes even physical alienation. This condition creates a universal need for salvation, which can be fulfilled through theological means such as grace, faith, or works, depending on the religious tradition. This need for salvation is viewed not just as a personal experience but as a collective human experience across different cultures and beliefs.

In contrast, other options may focus on external factors, such as fulfilling religious obligations, achieving worldly success, or conforming to societal standards, which may not encompass the deeper, intrinsic need for profound spiritual restoration and connection with the divine. Thus, the second option encapsulates the core understanding of soteriology and humanity's quest for ultimate meaning and redemption.