What does predestination refer to in religious terms?

Predestination refers to the theological doctrine that posits that God has predetermined the salvation or damnation of individuals. In this context, the belief is that a select group of individuals, often referred to as the "elect," are chosen by God for salvation. This idea is particularly associated with certain branches of Protestantism, most notably Calvinism, which emphasizes God's sovereignty and his ability to determine the fate of souls independently of human actions.

The notion of being "elect" signifies that salvation is not universally available, but rather that it is restricted to those whom God has specifically chosen. This contrasts with the other viewpoints, which do not align with the core concept of predestination: the idea that all individuals are destined for hell does not capture the essence of the doctrine, nor does the practice of living a virtuous life or the concept of free will. In predestination theology, salvation is ultimately independent of personal merit or decisions, focusing instead on divine choice.