skrifte

Skrifte is a Swedish word that translates to "confession" or "penance" in English. Historically, it refers to the practice of confessing sins to a priest as a part of the sacrament of reconciliation within certain Christian denominations, particularly Catholicism and some traditions within Lutheranism. This practice involves a private act of contrition, where an individual discloses their wrongdoings to a clergy member, who then offers absolution and assigns penance.

The purpose of skrifte is to seek forgiveness from God, reconcile with the church community, and receive spiritual guidance. The assigned penance could take various forms, such as prayer, fasting, or acts of charity. Over time, the emphasis and frequency of skrifte have varied within different Christian traditions and historical periods.

In modern usage, the term "skrifte" can sometimes be used more broadly to describe any act of admitting wrongdoing or revealing a secret, even outside of a strictly religious context. However, its primary and most recognized meaning remains tied to the religious sacrament of confession. The act of skrifte is intended to be a personal and spiritual journey towards seeking forgiveness and spiritual renewal.