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There are also many traditions that will insist that one can sin by not doing something. A Christian who does not do what is expected of them, even if they are doing nothing bad, is considered sinful to many. Also thoughts are considered sinful in many traditions, and there is a biblical basis for that. I know specifically about the verse that says lust is a sin, but I think there is even more of a basis to support the idea that thought can be sinful. Exactly what is "sin" varies a great deal between traditions. Many will simply take a legal standpoint and say that sin is breaking God's law. Others will generalize sin to things that cause harm or things that promote 'evil.' The definition that I thought of that I've become rather fond of is that sin is anything that separates a person from God. The theological implications of this are many but I don't think you want me to ramble on about that. Also the basis for forgiveness varies a lot from tradition to tradition. Some will just say that it is as easy as asking God for forgiveness and God says "OK." Others will say that forgiveness requires suffering or sacrifice to occur (such as penance). Yet another view requires a sincere repentance that also means the person must change their sinful ways as evidence of their change of heart. Of course aspects of each of these can be included in different religious traditions and many other factors can be involved, but those are some views.