Final Answer:
All we individuals have gone astray; we have turned—everyone—to his own way; and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all? Therefore, the correct answer is C) individuals.
Step-by-step explanation:
The given biblical verse, "All we individuals have gone astray; we have turned—every one—to his own way; and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all," underscores the individual nature of human transgressions. The word "individuals" aligns with the idea that each person, as an individual entity, has strayed and turned to their own path. This choice captures the essence of personal accountability, emphasizing the unique journey of each person away from the righteous path. The reason for this choice lies in the emphasis on personal responsibility and deviation, suggesting a more nuanced understanding of each person's actions rather than a collective or generalized term.
The alternatives, "peoples," "persons," and "crowds," carry broader connotations that do not precisely convey the sense of personal accountability evident in the original text. "Peoples" and "crowds" refer to larger groups, while "persons" lacks the same emphasis on personal waywardness. By selecting "individuals," we maintain the intended focus on the individual's deviation and the subsequent atonement described in the biblical passage. This aligns with the theological significance of recognizing each person's unique departure from righteousness and the redemptive act undertaken by the Lord.
In conclusion, the choice of "individuals" in the context of the given biblical verse ensures a more accurate representation of the intended meaning, emphasizing personal responsibility and the individual nature of the spiritual journey. Therefore, the correct answer is C) individuals.