The 7 Capital Sins

They 7 capital sins, which you may know as the 7 deadly sins, are pride, avarice, lust, envy, gluttony, anger, and sloth. They are called “capital” because they are the source of all other sins; not because they are necessarily the worst of sins. These sins can be either venial or mortal.

In paragraph 1866, the Catechism explains why the 7 capital sins are dangerous:

“Vices can be classified according to the virtues they oppose, or also be linked to capital sins which Christian experience has distinguished, following St. John Cassian and St. Gregory the Great. They are called “capital” because they engender other sins, other vices,” (No. 1866).

Venerable Fulton Sheen called the 7 vices the “seven pallbearers of the soul” because they cause spiritual destruction and death in the soul.

You can click here to learn more about each of the 7 capital sins.

“Capital” comes from the Latin word “caput,” which means “head.” These sins are also know as capital vices. As we grow in faith and relationship with God, we come to realize which of these 7 vices are at the root of the sins we commit. To continue to grow, healing from vices is usually necessary.

This requires the sacraments of Reconciliation and Holy Communion on a regular basis. Through reconciliation, God gives us grace as we work to order ourselves toward him. We are all prone to sin (concupiscence) because we all have been effected by original sin. In prayer, we can always ask God to reveal to us which capital vices we are most in need of healing.

Practicing the opposite virtue of each of the vices is a great way to root out the source of our sins. Here is a list of the virtues which opposes the vices.

·       Humility – pride

·       Chastity – lust

·       Generosity - avarice 

·       Meekness – anger

·       Gratitude - Envy 

·       Temperence – gluttony

·       Diligence - sloth 

Humility is a good place to start to combat our habitual sins. Through meekness and humility, we can set ourselves free: “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart; and you will find rest for yourselves,” (Matthew 11:29).

“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is gracious, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. Keep on doing what you have learned and received and heard and seen in me. Then the God of peace will be with you,” (Philippians 4: 8-9).