"The Big Bang Theory" returned from its winter hiatus with an episode that focused on friendship, compromise and understanding.

During the episode, "The Space Probe Disintegration," Penny and Amy realized that they're constantly making compromises to appease their boyfriends by doing things that only they want to do. As a result, they decided that Leonard and Sheldon should participate in an activity that only they want to do, which happened to be shopping. Hence, the guys were forced to accompany Penny and Amy as they went dress shopping, reports Entertainment Weekly.

Naturally, Sheldon and Leonard were bored and impatient while they sat by the fitting room. However, during their wait, the roommates addressed a deep issue in their relationship when Leonard told Sheldon that he wanted to move in with Penny. Sheldon said he wasn't ready for such a drastic change but is willing to compromise with him, so they agreed that Leonard would take gradual steps towarding moving in with Penny.

"The Space Probe Disintegration" also focused on the relationship between science and faith when Raj invited Howard to accompany him to a Hindu temple. Raj also took time to explain his religious faith to his incredulous friend. This marked the first time that they comedy series addressed the issue of religion in such a serious manner, according to Hypable.

During a recent interview with TVLine, executive producer Steve Molaro dropped spoilers about the rest of the season, revealing that the show's writers "aren't in a rush for a Leonard and Penny wedding."

Molaro also teased that the show will pay tribute to Carol Ann Susi, the late actress who played the voice role of Wolowitz's mother.

"The death of Carol will be dealt with. We just needed time to process the loss of our friend," Molaro said.

According to Carter Matt, the next all-new episode of "The Big Bang Theory" will air on Thursday, Jan. 29.