In this article, we dwell on the Seven deadly sins and lively virtues and how being aware of them can steer your life to success both terrestrially and hopefully through the pearly gates. 

Desolation of Tamar - 2 Samuel 13:1-22

The concept of the seven deadly sins is rooted in Christian tradition and refers to vices or behaviours that are considered immoral or sinful. Each of these sins has its own unique characteristics and consequences, which are explained in detail below:

1. Pride

Pride is the excessive belief in one's own abilities or accomplishments, which can Lead to arrogance and self-centeredness. It is often seen as the root of all sin because it can lead to a lack of humility and a sense of entitlement. Pride can cause individuals to put themselves above others, Leading to harmful behaviours and attitudes.

We are all created in the image and likeness of God, secondly, the fate that awaits us all having been born on this earth is the same, for both King and pauper. Finally, we came with nothing and will leave with nothing; we are all equal in the same way we came in and leave this earth. It is a fool indeed who fails to understand this.

Tissot - Building the ark Gen 7:9-22

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2. Envy

Envy is the desire for what someone else has, often leading to feelings of resentment and bitterness. It is a destructive emotion that can lead to a range of negative behaviours, such as jealousy, gossip, and even violence. Envy can cause individuals to focus on what they lack rather than what they have, leading to a lack of gratitude and appreciation for the blessings in their own lives.

3. Wrath

Wrath is intense anger or rage, often leading to destructive behaviour. It is a powerful emotion that can cause individuals to act impulsively and harmfully towards others. Wrath can cause individuals to lose control of their emotions, leading to poor decision-making and negative consequences for themselves and those around them.

4. Sloth or Laziness

Sloth is the avoidance of physical or spiritual work (acedia), often leading to laziness and apathy. It is a lack of effort or motivation to engage in productive or meaningful activities. Sloth can cause individuals to become complacent and stagnant, leading to a lack of personal growth and development.

Blake- Nebuchadnezzer reduced to an animal Daniel 4:19-37

5. Greed

Greed is the excessive desire for material possessions or wealth, leading to selfishness and hoarding. It is a preoccupation with accumulating wealth or resources at the expense of others. Greed can cause individuals to become obsessed with money and possessions, leading to a lack of empathy and concern for the needs of others.

The church has a doctrine called the universal destination of goods. In a nutshell, it states that all that is on earth is for all of humanity. Private property must be protected, but owners of such property must understand that they are only stewards of all of humanity. The implication is that in the event of some calamity, one cannot hoard private resources if those resources are the difference between life and death.

I find this doctrine very practical and useful. Another example would be an external existential threat (e.g Aliens attacking the earth). If such a thing were to happen, won't we all come together as mankind to beat a common enemy? There will be no difference between a King and a Pauper; for to the invaders, we are all the same, regardless of social or economic status.

Cades- Judgement of Solomon

6. Gluttony

Gluttony is overindulgence in food or drink, leading to unhealthy and wasteful behaviour. It is a lack of self-control and moderation. Gluttony can cause individuals to prioritize their own physical pleasure over their health and well-being, leading to negative consequences for themselves and those around them.

There is a proverb that goes, "all who loves wine and oil will never grow rich". This is a reference to Food and Alcohol. Excess indulgence in food and wine leads to obesity and alcoholism respectively. St Augustine said, and I paraphrase in regards to alcohol.. "Moderation is needed in regards to alcohol, however, for the vast majority, the best kind of moderation is abstinence".. How very true..

7. Lust

Lust is the excessive desire for sexual pleasure, often leading to immoral behaviour. It is a preoccupation with sexual gratification. Lust can cause individuals to objectify others and view them as a means to an end rather than as human beings deserving of respect and dignity.

The seven deadly sins represent a framework for identifying and avoiding harmful behaviours that can lead to negative consequences for oneself and others. By recognizing these sins and striving to overcome them, individuals can lead more moral and fulfilling lives.

The seven lively virtues are character traits that are seen as virtuous and morally positive. These virtues are an antidote to the seven deadly sins and represent the opposite of those vices. Each virtue has its own unique characteristics and benefits, which are explained below:

1. Humility Vs Pride

Humility is the ability to recognize one's own limitations and weaknesses and to have a modest and respectful view of oneself. It is the opposite of pride, which is an excessive belief in one's own abilities or accomplishments. Humility allows individuals to acknowledge the contributions of others and to work collaboratively towards shared goals. It promotes a sense of community and a willingness to learn from others.

2. Kindness Vs Envy

Kindness is the ability to show compassion and generosity towards others and to rejoice in their good fortune. It is the opposite of envy, which is the desire for what someone else has. Kindness allows individuals to see the humanity in others and to treat them with respect and dignity. It promotes a sense of empathy and understanding and can lead to deeper relationships and connections with others.

3. Patience vs Wrath (Anger)

Patience is the ability to endure difficult situations with calmness and composure and to approach challenges with a measured and steady approach. It is the opposite of wrath, which is intense anger or rage. Patience allows individuals to maintain a sense of perspective and avoid impulsive or harmful behaviours. It promotes a sense of resilience and perseverance and can lead to greater success and achievement.

4. Diligence Vs Sloth (Laziness)

Diligence is the ability to apply oneself with focused effort and persistent work, leading to achievement and success. It is the opposite of sloth, which is the avoidance of physical or spiritual work. Diligence allows individuals to achieve their goals and contribute to the greater good. It promotes a sense of purpose and meaning and can lead to greater satisfaction and fulfilment in life.

5. Generosity

Generosity is the ability to give freely to others, sharing one's resources and wealth to benefit the community. It is the opposite of greed, which is the excessive desire for material possessions or wealth. Generosity allows individuals to make a positive impact on the lives of others and contribute to the greater good. It promotes a sense of gratitude and appreciation and can lead to deeper connections with others.

I however have a caveat in regard to this. Never give at the expense of those you have a responsibility over. God in his wisdom gives you the ability to generate wealth, it is first for those under your care and thereafter those you choose to support.

6. Temperance vs Gluttony

Temperance is the ability to exercise self-control and moderation in all areas of life, avoiding excess and maintaining a balanced lifestyle. It is the opposite of gluttony, which is overindulgence in food or drink. Temperance allows individuals to prioritize their health and well-being and avoid harmful behaviours. It promotes a sense of discipline and self-awareness and can lead to greater personal growth and development.

7. Chastity vs Lust

Chastity is the ability to maintain purity and restraint in one's sexual desires, respect oneself and others and strive for healthy relationships. It is the opposite of lust, which is the excessive desire for sexual pleasure. 

Chastity allows individuals to approach relationships with respect and dignity, promoting healthy and fulfilling connections with others. It promotes a sense of self-respect and personal integrity and can lead to greater self-confidence and emotional well-being.

Crist - Judith holds the head of Holofernes

The seven lively virtues represent a framework for cultivating positive character traits and living a morally virtuous life. By embodying these virtues, individuals can strive towards a more fulfilling and meaningful existence, promoting positive relationships with others and contributing to the greater good.

Enjoy!