Exploring Pansexuality: The Seven Deadly Sins

The concept of the Seven Deadly Sins originates from Christian theology and tradition. These sins are considered particularly severe and are associated with moral transgressions that can lead to damnation if not repented. The list includes pride, greed, wrath, envy, lust, gluttony, and sloth. These sins are seen as destructive to the soul and are called deadly because they can lead to spiritual death if not atoned for. The concept has been influential in various forms of media, including anime, and has served as a moral framework for believers to lead virtuous lives.

Pride

In the Bible, pride is consistently cautioned against and is regarded as one of the most destructive and insidious transgressions. Proverbs 16:18 states, "Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall", highlighting the potential consequences of this sin. It is also considered the devil's most essential trait, as it was through pride that Lucifer became wicked.

The modern understanding of pride is summed up in the biblical proverb, "Pride goeth before a fall", warning against the foolish actions that pride can lead to. In leadership, "hubris" describes how powerful leaders can become irrationally self-confident, leading to impulsive decisions.

Envy

The concept of the seven deadly sins was formalised by Pope Gregory I in the 6th century, building upon the work of earlier Christian theologians such as Evagrius Ponticus and John Cassian. Envy, in particular, was added to the list by Pope Gregory, who combined tristitia (sorrow) and acedia (spiritual sloth) into a single sin of sloth, and separated vainglory (excessive pride or boasting) from pride, creating the sin of envy.

The antidote to envy is kindness, which involves placing the needs of others above one's own desires and helping others without expecting anything in return. This virtue is essential for spiritual growth and maintaining healthy relationships with others and God.

Wrath

In the Bible, Romans 12:19 states: "Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, 'Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.'" Other biblical references to wrath include Psalm 37:8, Proverbs 14:29, Proverbs 15:1, Ephesians 4:26-27, Colossians 3:8, and James 1:19-20.

The virtue that counteracts wrath is patience, which involves understanding the needs and desires of others and responding calmly, even in the face of provocations.

Gluttony

In the Bible, there are several verses that caution against overindulgence and emphasise the importance of moderation and self-control. For example, Proverbs 23:20-21 warns against the consequences of gluttony and excessive consumption:

> "Be not among drunkards or among gluttonous eaters of meat, for the drunkard and the glutton will come to poverty, and slumber will clothe them with rags."

Another passage, Philippians 3:18-19, criticises those who focus on earthly pleasures and excessive concern for physical appetites:

> "For many, of whom I have often told you and now tell you even with tears, walk as enemies of the cross of Christ. Their end is destruction, their god is their belly, and they glory in their shame, with minds set on earthly things."

• Laute: eating too expensively
• Studiose: eating too daintily
• Nimis: eating too much
• Praepropere: eating too soon
• Ardenter: eating too eagerly

Lust

> "But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart." (Matthew 5:28, ESV)

This verse highlights the significance of both external actions and internal thoughts and desires in relation to lust. The Bible also provides guidance on how to overcome lust, recommending chastity and self-control as cures.

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