ETYM French absolution, Latin absolutio, from absolvere to absolve. Related to Absolve.
Formal redemption as pronounced by a priest in the sacrament of penance; SYN. remission, remission of sin.
In Christianity, the authority of the church to pronounce God's forgiveness to a penitent sinner. The church acts as Christ's representative, and in so far as the church is filled with the Spirit of God, pronounces the judgment of God.