Penance is a practice in various religious traditions where individuals express remorse for their wrongdoings. It often involves actions such as confession, prayer, or performing good deeds to seek forgiveness and restore one's relationship with the divine. In Christianity, particularly within the Catholic Church, penance is a sacrament that includes acts of contrition and the intention to amend one's life. In addition to its religious context, penance can also refer to self-imposed hardships or sacrifices as a way to atone for mistakes. This concept can be found in various cultures and philosophies, emphasizing personal responsibility and the importance of making amends for one's actions.