Catholic Dictionary

Find accurate definitions of over 5,000 Catholic terms and phrases (including abbreviations). Based on Fr. John Hardon's Modern Catholic Dictionary, © Eternal Life. Used with permission.

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OBREPTION

The attempt to obtain, or actually obtaining, an ecclesiastical dispensation under false pretenses. If a favorable answer is received, it is considered valid provided at least one of the motive causes set forth is true. (Etym. Latin ob-, against + rapere, to seize, snatch: obreptio, a creeping or stealing on, deceiving.)