the seven heavenly virtues and their meanings
The Seven Heavenly Virtues and their Meanings
The Seven Heavenly Virtues of Catechism evolved as a counterbalance to The Seven Deadly Sins. This Buzzle article focuses on each of the virtues, along with what they stand for.
Did You Know?
Each of the Seven Heavenly Virtues has a corresponding Deadly Sin.The Seven Heavenly Virtues of Catholic Catechism
1. CHARITY
Represents Benevolence and Generosity.
Corresponding Vice : GREED
In Christian theology, Charity (or Love) is the greatest of the three Theological Virtues, the other two being Faith and Hope. Charity stands for the willingness to go out of your way to help others, even at the cost of your own self. This is the purest form of love, and is the ultimate perfection of the human spirit, as it is considered to reflect the nature of God. This love is self-sacrificial and is essential for salvation.
2. CHASTITY
Represents Purity, Honesty, Knowledge, Wisdom.
Corresponding Vice : LUST
The virtue of Chastity means the ability to overcome temptation and remain unaffected by Worldly Desires. You should have the courage to take a conscious decision to stay away from distractions, and not allow temptations to drive you away from the path of moral wholesomeness. It also embodies honesty―being honest to yourself, your family, and the whole of humanity.
3. DILIGENCE
Represents Persistence, Effort, Ethics, Rectitude..
Corresponding Vice : SLOTH
The virtue of Diligence means a zealous and careful nature in one's actions and work; decisive work ethic, steadfastness in belief, fortitude, and the capability of not giving up. It means being steadfast and not allowing obstacles to discourage you or force you to quit. It implies effective time management and guarding yourself against laziness. It is also about staying true to yourself and your convictions.
4. HUMILITY
Represents Bravery, Modesty, Reverence, Altruism.
Corresponding Vice : PRIDE
The virtue of Humility means modest behavior, selflessness, and the giving of respect. Note that this virtue does not imply self-hatred, which is a consequence of low self-esteem. On the contrary, it means being aware of your greatness, and knowing that you need not prove your greatness to the world. This virtue also means giving respect to people of wisdom.
5. KINDNESS
Represents Satisfaction, Loyalty, Compassion, Integrity
Corresponding Vice : ENVY
The virtue of Kindness means charity, compassion, and friendship for its own sake. It means doing good towards one and all, and having everyone's best interest at heart, without the feelings of prejudice or resentment. It also means having a positive attitude and inspiring the same in others.
6. PATIENCE
Represents Peace, Mercy, Ahimsa, Sufferance.
Corresponding Vice : WRATH
The virtue of Patience means forbearance and endurance through moderation, and resolving conflicts and injustice peacefully, as opposed to resorting to violence. This virtue is about choosing to forgive, as opposed to holding on to grudges or seeking revenge. Followers of this virtue readily accept the faults of others, and show mercy to sinners.
7. TEMPERANCE
Represents Self-control, Justice, Honor, Abstention
Corresponding Vice : GLUTTONY
The virtue of Temperance means constant mindfulness of others and one's surroundings; practicing self-control, abstention, and moderation. It is the ability to judge between actions with respect to which action is appropriate at a given situation. Followers of this virtue are aware of the proper moderation between self-interest and public interest.