Definition of absolution

The word "absolution" originates from the Latin words "abs" meaning "from" and "solvere" meaning "to loose" or "to release". In Christian theology, absolution refers to the forgiveness of sins and the release from their penalty, usually conferred by a priest or bishop through the sacrament of penance. In the 14th century, the Latin phrase "absolvo te a peccatis tuis" was used to convey the idea of releasing someone from their sins. Over time, this phrase was translated into Middle English as "absolucyoun" or "absolucion", which eventually evolved into the modern English word "absolution". In modern usage, the term "absolution" typically refers to the sacramental forgiveness of sins, often accompanied by a ritual formula such as "I absolve you from your sins".