Atonement

as 'action to be at one'

Morphological analysis

• Etymon: Atonement from Middle English atone: 'at one'
• Morpheme breakdown: at lit. 'at' + one lit. 'one' + suffix -ment 'action to be' → 'action to be at one'

Essential definition

The essential action or process of moving toward unity, harmony, or reconciliation within a relationship or system, grounded in the etymological sense of “being at one.”

Semantic context

• Conventional sense: Making amends to restore a damaged relationship; expiation. (Note: Semantic drift from essential meaning)
• Essential meaning (my usage): action to be at one

Philosophical significance

In summary, redefining atonement as 'the action to be at one' transforms it from a religious transaction into a universal, practical, and life-affirming process. It harmonizes with forgiveness to make salvation an accessible, ongoing practice of relational harmony—relevant to personal, social, and ecological flourishing.

Usage in this lexicon

When I use the word atonement in my work, I mean exactly 'action to be at one'. This definition:

• removes atonement from the framework of debt, penalty, or sacrificial payment. This makes the concept ethically and psychologically healthier—atonement is no longer about appeasing an offended party but about actively moving toward relational unity;
• positions atonement as a fundamental process of existence, not just a religious or ethical duty. It becomes a universal principle applicable to all relationships—human, ecological, social, and even cosmic—grounded in the nature of being itself;
• presents atonement as one half of a dynamic pair with forgiveness ('measure of giving away'). This creates a balanced model for reconciliation: atonement moves toward unity; forgiveness allows difference to coexist. Together, they sustain the “conference of difference.”;
• democratizes atonement—it’s not reserved for the spiritually elite or the theologically correct. Anyone can practice atonement as a relational act, making salvation a present, participatory process rather than a distant reward;
• turns an abstract theological idea into a tangible, actionable practice. Useful in conflict resolution, restorative justice, community building, and personal growth—where “being at one” is a deliberate, creative act;
• extends beyond human relationships to ecological and systemic contexts. Atonement as “action to be at one” can frame environmental harmony, social cohesion, and intercultural dialogue as forms of salvation-in-process;
• doesn’t require belief in a particular deity or supernatural framework. Makes the concept usable in secular, interfaith, and philosophical contexts while still honoring its spiritual depth;
• resonates with modern emphasis on relational healing, trauma recovery, and systemic repair. Offers a philosophical foundation for practices like mindfulness, dialogue, and restorative circles; and
• shifts focus from future/escatological salvation to immediate, relational practice. Encourages living “salvation now” through daily acts of atonement and forgiveness.

Related terms

• Conference
• Difference
• Forgiveness

Sources

• Wiktionary

*This definition follows morphological essentialism principles. See the Methodology for details.