contritio
Contrition
Sorrow for sin with the resolve not to sin again — the first act required of the penitent; “perfect” when it springs from love of God, “imperfect” when from fear or the ugliness of sin.
a crushing; a being ground down
Contrition is sorrow of soul and detestation for the sin committed, together with the resolution not to sin again. When it arises from love of God above all else it is called perfect contrition, and it forgives even mortal sins — provided it includes the firm intention to go to Confession as soon as possible. When it arises from lesser motives, such as fear of hell or the ugliness of sin, it is called imperfect contrition, or attrition; this is a real gift of God and enough to receive absolution in the sacrament, but it cannot by itself forgive mortal sin.
Councils
Where the Church settled or debated this. Follow a council to read our article on it, or the decrees themselves.
- 1545–1563Council of Trentthe decrees
Sources checked 29 September 2026