The Seven Deadly Sins – What Are They?

Unlike the ten commandments, the seven deadly sins are not explicitly listed in the Bible. They were formalized and outlined by Pope Gregory I in the late sixth century. However, you will find references to these sins when you read scripture. Christians believe that sin is a transgression of God’s law. The seven deadly sins are the root of all sin, but with prayer and reflection, you can try to overcome them.

Pride: Also known as vainglory, this sin involves conceit, arrogance, and regarding yourself as superior to others. Humility and meekness can counter pride and lead you on the path of righteousness.

Envy: Envy involves desiring something that someone else has. This needn’t be confined to material possessions. Resenting someone’s blessings or envying someone’s relationships also boils down to envy. If you’re struck with envy, try to focus on thankfulness, gratitude, and joy for what you have.

Wrath: Wrath is strong anger and hate. It might manifest in violence, harsh words, or the desire to take revenge on someone who has wronged you. The Bible verse Romans 12:19 asks us to leave vengeance to God as it is His to repay. The virtuous counterparts to wrath are patience, peace, and self-control.

Gluttony: Gluttony is an excessive indulgence in food and drink. When we eat or drink, we should do so to give glory to God for His provisions and to sustain a body that is fit to serve others. Its counterpart is temperance.

Lust: Lust is a strong passion, longing, or indulgence in sexual desires. Lust takes our focus from God and centers it on human desires. Practice chastity, unselfishness, and self-control to banish lust.

Sloth: Sloth doesn’t just mean laziness. It also refers to a failure to use your talents, spiritual apathy, inactivity, and a disinclination to action. Perseverance, diligence, and zeal are the cures to slothfulness.

Greed: Greed means to desire and try to acquire more than you need. The Bible advises us to be content with what we have, safe in the knowledge that God will never forsake us. Practice charity and generosity to cure greed.