Centuries ago, monks associated with the superior clergy within the Roman Catholic Church classified certain lifestyles as blasphemous, thus leading to the formation of the “Seven Deadly Sins,” with mockery thereof and the punishment to hell for all eternity.
These sins were not mentioned in the Bible but were modified to enhance honesty and decency in modern times. Non-Christian religions also have ethics that emphasize compassion, non-violence towards humans and animals, and the preservation of anything “God-given.”
Common references to the Seven Deadly Sins and their disturbances to humans and society are mentioned below.
Anger: A sin when directed at an innocent person. Anger can raise blood pressure, cause headaches and anxiety, and lead to violence. Often, deep-seated roots exacerbate this emotion.
Envy: Can be a risk factor for heart disease, aggressive behavior, and unfairness to others. It is sometimes termed self-destructive.
Gluttony: Refers to an excessive love of food, not necessarily related to hunger but as a reliance for comfort. This can also relate to parents overfeeding children, which becomes habitual.
Greed: Sometimes called the twin of gluttony. It is a complex human emotion with negative effects that can drive a person to seek wealth, power, and possessions without sufficient satisfaction.
Lust: Alters the chemicals in one’s brain. It is essentially a strong sexual desire for another person and a persistence to keep the relationship ongoing.
Pride: Often associated with low self-worth and esteem, but it also involves deep pleasure in one’s own achievements and possessions.
Sloth: Generally a disinclination towards activity or exertion, despite having the ability to act. A person with this habit is commonly named a couch potato.
Whether these sins are relevant today, the element of decency is essential, albeit changes in society. Understanding these sins and their impact on human behavior can help in fostering a more ethical and compassionate society. The Seven Deadly Sins serve as a moral compass, guiding individuals to reflect on their actions and strive for personal growth and societal harmony.