Wyznawienie

Wyznawanie is a Polish term that translates to "confession" in English. It refers to the act of admitting one's sins or wrongdoing, particularly within the context of the Catholic Church. The sacrament of Penance and Reconciliation, often called confession, involves an individual confessing their sins to a priest. This confession is a private and sacred act, with the priest bound by a strict seal of confession, meaning they cannot reveal what has been confessed to anyone.

The act of wyznawanie is a central part of Catholic practice for achieving spiritual healing and reconciliation with God. It is typically performed during the sacrament of confession, where individuals reflect on their actions, express remorse, and seek absolution. The priest, acting in the person of Christ, offers guidance and assigns a penance, such as prayer or acts of charity, to help the penitent atone for their sins.

Beyond its religious meaning, "wyznawanie" can also be used more broadly to describe the act of acknowledging or admitting to something, such as a personal belief, an error, or a truth. In this secular sense, it signifies an open declaration or disclosure. However, its most common and significant usage remains within the religious sphere.