The Seven Deadly Sins

The seven deadly sins, also known as the capital vices or cardinal sins, are a classification of vices in Christian teachings. They are considered to be the root of all other sins and immoral behavior.

Understanding the Deadly Sins

These seven sins are called "deadly" not because they lead to physical death, but because they lead to spiritual death by separating us from God. They are considered the root causes of all other sins and vices. Each sin represents a perversion of a legitimate human need or desire.

The Seven Deadly Sins

Pride

1

Superbia

The excessive belief in one's own abilities, that interferes with the individual's recognition of the grace of God. It has been called the sin from which all others arise. Pride is also known as Vanity.

Proverbs 16:18 - Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.

Greed

2

Avaritia

The desire for material wealth or gain, ignoring the realm of the spiritual. It is also called Avarice or Covetousness.

1 Timothy 6:10 - For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.

Wrath

3

Ira

Feelings of anger, rage, and hatred. Wrath is uncontrolled feelings of hatred and anger. Wrath often reveals itself in the wish to seek vengeance.

Ephesians 4:26 - Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath.

Envy

4

Invidia

The desire for others' traits, status, abilities, or situation. Envy is the sin of jealousy. It is resentment of others for their possessions.

Proverbs 14:30 - A sound heart is the life of the flesh: but envy the rottenness of the bones.

Lust

5

Luxuria

An inordinate craving for the pleasures of the body. It is usually thought of as excessive sexual thoughts, but can also mean other forms of desire.

1 Corinthians 6:18 - Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body.

Gluttony

6

Gula

An inordinate desire to consume more than that which one requires. Gluttony is the over-indulgence and over-consumption of anything to the point of waste.

Proverbs 23:21 - For the drunkard and the glutton shall come to poverty: and drowsiness shall clothe a man with rags.

Sloth

7

Acedia

The failure to utilize one's talents and gifts. It is also called Acedia or Laziness. Sloth is the avoidance of physical or spiritual work.

Proverbs 6:6 - Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise.

Spiritual Reflection

The recognition of these sins is not meant to condemn, but to help us understand our human nature and our need for God's grace. Through prayer, self-examination, and the practice of virtue, we can overcome these tendencies and grow closer to God.

Biblical Foundation

While the specific list of seven deadly sins is not found in a single biblical passage, the concept is deeply rooted in Scripture. The Bible warns against each of these vices throughout both the Old and New Testaments, emphasizing the importance of self-control, humility, and love for God and neighbor.