In Catholic theology, this term signifies sorrow for sin, accompanied by a firm purpose of amendment. It involves acknowledging the offense against God and feeling genuine regret for having committed it. This sorrow is not merely a feeling of regret because of the consequences of sin, but rather a heartfelt turning away from sin itself due to love for God or a fear of divine punishment.
This concept is considered essential for the sacrament of Penance (Confession). It represents the interior disposition required for receiving forgiveness. Perfect form of this arises from love of God and sorrow for having offended Him, while imperfect form stems from other motives, such as fear of hell or the ugliness of sin. Traditionally, the first is seen as superior because of its source in charity, though both prepare the soul for absolution.
