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(theology) a place where Roman Catholics think those who have died in a state of grace undergo limited torment to expiate their sins

(theology) in Roman Catholic theology the place where those who have died in a state of grace undergo limited torment to expiate their sins

Tending to cleanse; cleansing; expiatory.

A state or place of purification after death; according to the Roman Catholic creed, a place, or a state believed to exist after death, in which the souls of persons are purified by expiating such offenses committed in this life as do not merit eternal damnation, or in which they fully satisfy the justice of God for sins that have been forgiven. After this purgation from the impurities of sin, the souls are believed to be received into heaven.

In the Roman Catholic creed, the state after death in which the souls of the faithful are purified from venial sins by suffering.

Purging or cleansing: expiatory.

According to R. Catholic and some eastern religions, a place or state in which souls are after death purified from venial sins.

A place where, according to some creeds, the souls of the dead are purified.

R. C. Ch. An intermediate state where souls are made fit for heaven by explatory suffering.

Tending to cleanse; expiatory.

In the Romish Church, a place or state after death, in which souls are purified from venial sins, and in which the result is in great part ascribed to the prayers of the faithful and the sacrifice of the mass; any condition of more or less painful purgation.

n. [Latin] Among Roman Catholics, a place or a state believed to exist after death, in which the souls of persons are purified, or in which they expiate such offences committed in this life as do not merit eternal damnation ;-hence, state or period of trial, suffering, and misery.