Indulgences意思

"Indulgences" is a term with several meanings, depending on the context in which it is used. Here are a few common definitions:

  1. Religion: In the context of Christianity, especially the Catholic Church, indulgences refer to the partial or full remission of temporal punishment for sins. This concept is based on the belief that after confessing and receiving absolution for sins, a person may still be required to do penance or suffer punishment in Purgatory. An indulgence, granted through the Church's authority, can reduce or eliminate this punishment. The sale of indulgences was a practice that contributed to the Protestant Reformation.

  2. Luxury or Pleasure: Indulgence can mean the act of enjoying something that is pleasurable, often in excess or as a luxury. For example, "She indulged in a decadent chocolate cake."

  3. Permissiveness: In a more general sense, indulgence can refer to the act of allowing or encouraging someone to do something they enjoy, often without restraint, even if it might be considered excessive or self-indulgent. For instance, "The parents' indulgence of their child's whims led to a spoiled brat."

  4. Economics: In economic theory, indulgence can refer to a type of financial instrument or security, similar to a bond, that was used in the past to finance government projects or wars. These were often associated with the sale of religious indulgences during the Renaissance and Reformation periods.

  5. Psychology: Psychological indulgence refers to the act of giving in to one's desires or impulses without considering the consequences or the impact on one's well-being or relationships.

The meaning of "indulgences" can vary widely depending on the context, but it generally implies a granting or enjoying of something that is not strictly necessary for basic needs but is sought for pleasure, luxury, or forgiveness.