
The seven deadly sins are a well-known concept in Christianity and Western culture. They are usually listed as pride, covetousness, lust, envy, gluttony, anger or wrath, and sloth. While there is no clear biblical source for this particular list of sins, the number seven plays a significant role in the Bible, and the concept of seven sins is thought to originate from Mishle 6:16. The idea of the seven deadly sins is believed to have existed in Jewish sources and may predate the version popularized by Christian theologians. The Jewish version, according to some opinions, differs slightly from the Christian one.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Pride | Unrealistic sense of self-worth |
Envy | Resentment towards others' success or possessions |
Wrath | Intense and uncontrolled anger or hatred |
Gluttony | Overindulgence or overconsumption of food or drink |
Lust | Excessive desire for sexual gratification |
Greed | Excessive desire for material wealth or possessions |
Sloth | Laziness, avoidance of work or duty |
Pride
The Bible frequently warns against pride. In the Book of Genesis, the serpent tempts Eve by appealing to her pride and envy, promising that she will "be like God, knowing good and evil" if she eats the forbidden fruit. The Old Testament also includes the famous proverb, "Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall" (Proverbs 16:18).
However, it is important to note that not all forms of pride are considered sinful. For example, parental pride or pride in one's work is generally viewed positively. The complexity of pride lies in distinguishing between healthy self-affirmation and sinful arrogance.
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Envy
In the Torah, envy is associated with the story of Jacob and Esau, who were in fierce competition during their boyhood. Each wanted what the other had, and their rivalry led to trickery and threats of violence. However, as adults, they were able to reconcile and overcome their envy when they became secure in their own achievements. This story illustrates the destructive nature of envy and the importance of recognizing and appreciating one's own possessions and achievements.
In Jewish literature, envy is mentioned in the Talmud and is associated with the idea that jealousy can cause a person to turn to dust when they die, while those who live without jealousy will have their bones preserved. This belief highlights the corrosive and destructive nature of envy. Additionally, the Talmud makes a distinction between jealousy and envy, noting that while jealousy is detrimental, envy can be positive if it motivates one to attain positive attributes such as kindness, sensitivity, and decency.
The Tenth Commandment in the Torah prohibits coveting, which is closely related to envy. It states, "You shall not covet your neighbor's house. You shall not covet your neighbor's wife, or his male or female servant, his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor" (Exodus 20:17, NIV). This commandment recognizes the powerful nature of desire and the potential for it to lead to immoral actions.
In summary, envy is a complex emotion that has been explored in both Christian and Jewish traditions. While it is considered one of the seven deadly sins in Christianity, Jewish literature presents a nuanced view, distinguishing between negative jealousy and positive envy that can lead to self-improvement. The story of Jacob and Esau in the Torah serves as a cautionary tale about the destructive nature of envy and the importance of contentment.
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Gluttony
In the Torah, gluttony is mentioned in Leviticus 19:26 and Deuteronomy 21:20, the latter of which describes the "stubborn and rebellious son", who is punished for his gluttonous ways. The Talmud in Sanhedrin interprets this to mean "do not eat the meal that will lead to bloodshed", suggesting that gluttony can lead to a multitude of sins. The Sefer HaChinuch refers to Deuteronomy 32:15, which states that Jeshurun (Israel) "grew fat and rebelled", indicating that when one is overstuffed and complacent, they are more inclined to turn away from God.
In the New Testament, Jesus mentions that the Pharisees have wrongly accused him of being a glutton (Matthew 11:19, Luke 7:34). In the Book of Titus, the Cretans are described as "lazy gluttons". Additionally, several verses in Proverbs associate gluttony with laziness, poverty, and rebellion.
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Lust
While the concept of the seven deadly sins is rooted in Christian theology, there is a Jewish equivalent that includes lust. In the Jewish interpretation, lust is understood as a desire for gratification, which can include gluttony, illicit sexual desire, or other forms of unbridled longing, such as for money or power.
In Judaism, lust is viewed as a natural feeling that God has created within us. It is not considered an aberration to feel lustful. However, outside of marriage, Judaism expects individuals to be aware of their higher calling, utilise their intellect, and exert self-control to overcome bodily urges.
The Talmud teaches that if one encounters temptation, they should turn to the study of Torah, as a psyche devoid of spirituality and meaning can become a breeding ground for unbridled lust. By studying the Torah daily, individuals strengthen their spiritual immune system, helping them resist lustful thoughts and desires.
In conclusion, while lust is a natural feeling, Judaism emphasises the importance of awareness, self-control, and spiritual growth to prevent it from becoming a destructive force in one's life.
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Wrath
While the seven deadly sins are not listed in the Bible, wrath and anger are frequently warned against in scripture. Wrath is defined as a strong feeling of hatred or resentment with a desire for vengeance. This overwhelming feeling and desire for revenge distinguishes wrath from anger that is balanced with reason, which is not a sin.
In the Catechism of the Catholic Church, anger is distinct from the sin of wrath and is discussed as one of the passions, or feelings that incline humans to act or not act in response to something that is perceived as good or evil. Passions are not considered good or evil in themselves, but they take on a moral quality relative to how effectively they engage with reason and will. Thus, passions are morally good when they lead to a good action and morally evil when they contribute to an evil action.
In the Gospel According to Matthew, when Jesus is being seized for his arrest, he alludes to the dangers of wrath while admonishing one of his disciples for brandishing a sword against his captors: "Put your sword back into its place; for all who take the sword will perish by the sword" (26:52). In the Letter of Paul to the Galatians 5:19–21, St. Paul names anger in a list of "works of the flesh" that are warned against, for "those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God."
Psalm 37:8 advises: "Refrain from anger, and forsake from wrath…it leads only to evil." According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, the neutral act of anger becomes the sin of wrath when it is directed against an innocent person, when it is unduly strong or long-lasting, or when it desires excessive punishment.
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