Shriving

Part of Speech: Verb

Definition: The act of confessing sins and seeking forgiveness from a priest, especially in preparation for receiving sacraments.

Sense 1: Religious Context

• Usage: In many Christian traditions, shriving is an important part of the sacrament of reconciliation.
• Example Sentence: Before receiving Holy Communion, John went to the church to seek shriving from the priest.

Sense 2: Historical Context

• Usage: Shriving was particularly common during the Middle Ages when penitents sought absolution for their sins.
• Example Sentence: The convicted criminal was brought to the chapel for shriving before facing a public execution.