MORTAL SINS Meaning and
Definition
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"Mortal sins" refers to grave offenses committed by an individual that are considered to be severe transgressions against divine law or a religious code of ethics. These sins are believed by certain religious traditions, such as Catholicism, to be so serious that they sever the soul's relationship with God and result in the loss of sanctifying grace. Unlike venial sins, which are considered less serious and can be forgiven through confession and penance, mortal sins are believed to require the sacrament of reconciliation or penance for forgiveness and absolution.
The term "mortal" comes from the Latin word "mortalis," meaning "subject to death" or "fatal," implying that these sins lead to spiritual death or separation from God's grace. Examples of mortal sins may include acts such as murder, adultery, blasphemy, and willful disobedience to divine commandments.
The concept of mortal sins varies across different religious traditions, and interpretations may differ within a given tradition. In Catholicism, these sins are viewed as deliberate and committed with full knowledge of their gravity, as well as with deliberate intent. The severity of these sins is believed to arise from their grave nature and the damage they cause to both the individual's relationship with God and the community. Therefore, avoidance of mortal sins and striving for reconciliation through confession are essential aspects of maintaining spiritual well-being within these religious beliefs.
Etymology of MORTAL SINS
The term "mortal sins" originated from the Latin word "peccata mortalia". In Latin, "peccata" refers to sins, and "mortalia" means mortal or deadly. The concept of mortal sins originated in Christian theology and refers to grave offenses that are committed with full knowledge and deliberate intent, which are believed to separate the individual from God's grace.
