Lust and Gluttony: Separate Sins in Catholic Doctrine

In the context of Catholic doctrine, kissing and gluttony are often discussed as separate sins. While both vices involve a desire for something that can be considered good becoming distorted, they are distinct concepts with different origins and effects.

Classification of Vices

Vices, in Christian theology, can be classified in various ways. They can be categorized according to the virtues they oppose or according to the capital sins that have been identified by Christian experience. These capital sins, also known as the cardinal sins, are seen as particularly destructive and can lead to a multitude of other sins and vices. In addition to pride, avarice, envy, wrath, lust, gluttony, and sloth or acedia, the list of capital sins includes envy and wrath.

Key Definitions

The Catechism of the Catholic Church defines lust as 'disordered desire for or inordinate enjoyment of sexual pleasure.'

Gluttony is described as 'overindulgence in food or drink,' as noted in the glossary of the Catechism.

Ninth Commandment and Vices

Both lust and gluttony are tied to the ninth commandment from the Decalogue (Ten Commandments), which prohibits carnal concupiscence. The term 'carnal concupiscence' refers to the drive to satisfy one's fleshly desires in an immoderate way. Etymologically, the term 'concupiscence' refers to a strong desire or craving.

The ninth commandment alerts us to the risk of allowing such desires to take over our lives, leading to the disregard of the needs of others in favor of our own selfish gratification.

Personal and Societal Impact

One can experience lust for any kind of pleasure or abuse, often at the expense of others. Lust, like other sins, causes people to ignore the needs of those around them to satisfy their individual appetites. This can lead to a disregard for the well-being of others and an imbalance in personal relationships.

Gluttony, on the other hand, was a common vice among the ancient nobility and wealthy in the Greco-Roman empires. This sin not only negatively impacts the individual's soul by making it weaker but also has broader societal impacts. By overindulging in food and drink, individuals contribute to the exploitation of animals and nature, leading to further environmental degradation and ethical concerns.

The Distinction Between Lust and Gluttony

The vices of lust and gluttony are distinct because they affect us in different ways. Lust is primarily a disordered sexual desire, whereas gluttony involves the misuse of food or drink. Both can lead to a diminishment of self-control and a disregard for others, but they manifest differently in our lives and societies.

By understanding and recognizing the distinctions between these sins, individuals can work towards addressing the underlying issues and leading a more virtuous and balanced life.