An indulgence, in Roman Catholic theology, means that temporal punishment (punishment here on Earth) for sins which have already been forgiven is taken from the sinner.
A Roman Catholic indulgence, dated Dec. 19, 1521. The use of the
printing press made possible the mass production of form documents offering indulgences.
The indulgence is given by the church after the sinner has confessed and received absolution. Indulgences replaced the severe penances of the early church.