Penances

Penance refers to acts undertaken to demonstrate remorse for wrongdoing and to repair the harm caused, often within a religious or moral framework. The term derives from Latin poenitentia, meaning repentance, and in many traditions it involves confession, contrition, and prescribed acts intended to express remorse and restore balance.

In the Catholic Church, penance is a central element of the Sacrament of Penance (Reconciliation). After confessing sins to a priest, the penitent is assigned a penance, typically prayers, fasting, or acts of charity. The penance is meant to express contrition, repair the harm caused by sin, and assist the penitent in preparing for absolution. Penance addresses the temporal consequences of sin and supports spiritual renewal. The practice has ancient roots and was elaborated in medieval theology, with later affirmations by the Council of Trent about its role within the sacramental order.

Other Christian traditions vary in emphasis and form. Anglican and Protestant communities may practice confession and personal acts of repentance, sometimes viewing penance as a discipline rather than a sacramental rite. The Orthodox Church maintains regular confession and associated spiritual disciplines as part of penitential life.

Across religions and cultures, parallel concepts exist. In Islam, repentance (tauba) and seeking forgiveness (istighfar) involve turning away from sin and reforming behavior. Hinduism and Buddhism incorporate ascetic practices and acts of discipline (such as tapas) as means of purification. In secular contexts, penance can also refer to voluntary acts of apology, restitution, or community service, or to disciplinary measures within legal or organizational settings.