This understanding of limbo is denoted as limbus infantium or limbus puerorum.Īt the outset of this article, note that the Church has never officially defined the doctrine of limbo.

These souls are denied eternal life in Heaven and the Beatific Vision due solely to the effects of Original Sin. The other understanding of limbo refers to the permanent place and state of the souls of those who have died without baptism and without mortal sin, particularly the souls of infants. (The word Hell here should not be confused with our present understanding as the place of eternal damnation here Hell is the English translation for the word sheol, 'the place of the dead,' with limbo being the particular waiting place for the just.) This understanding of limbo is denoted as limbus patrum. Once our Lord had offered Himself on the cross as the perfect sacrifice for our sins, He 'descended into Hell,' as we profess in the Apostles' Creed, to reveal Himself and to take these souls to Heaven.

In theology, the word limbo, derived from the Latin limbus, meaning 'hem' or 'border,' is understood in two senses: First, limbo refers to the temporary place and state of rest of the souls of the just who had died and were awaiting the saving action of the Messiah.