Venial sins are minor offenses in the context of moral theology, particularly within the Catholic Church. Unlike mortal sins, which are serious violations that can lead to spiritual death, venial sins do not sever one's relationship with God. They are considered less severe and can be forgiven through acts of contrition, prayer, and participation in the sacraments. These sins can arise from a lack of full knowledge or consent, meaning the individual may not fully understand the wrongness of their actions. Examples of venial sins include small acts of dishonesty or minor irritations towards others. While they still require repentance, they do not carry the same weight as mortal sins.