Seven Contrary Virtues

Seven Contrary VirtuesHumilityGenerosityKindnessChastityPatienceTemperanceDiligence

Seven Contrary Virtues

• Practicing these virtues is supposed to protect one against temptation toward the Seven Deadly Sins (or negative thought and action).

The word “virtue” can be replaced with the phrase “positive thought and action”

Seven Contrary Virtues

The Virtues 1-7

humility l generosity l kindness l chastity l patience l temperance l diligence

1. Humility

Humility • Humility is the virtue that

counters pride or vanity.

As pride leads to other sins, true humility clears a path for goodness.

Humility • The virtue of humility is about modest

behavior, selflessness, and the giving of respect. –This includes praising others and not

seeking praise in return.

2. Generosity

Generosity • Generosity is the virtue that is

counter to greed, which is the sin of insatiable desire for earthly goods.

Generosity • The virtue of generosity is focused not merely

on the appropriate concern regarding one's earthly goods, but also on generosity and a willingness to give, freely and without request for recognition or praise.

3. Chastity

3. Chastity • Chastity is the counter-

virtue to the sin of lust.

3. Chastity • Chastity embraces moral wholesomeness and

purity, and in both thought and action treats the gift of sexuality with due reverence and respect. – This includes modest dress, speech and actions.

4. Patience

4. Patience• Patience is the virtue that counters

the sin of unjust anger, also called wrath or rage.

4. Patience• The virtue of patience focuses on seeking

appropriate resolution to conflicts, and on the ability to forgive and show mercy.

5. Temperance

5. Temperance • The virtue of temperance

counters the sin of gluttony. To be gluttonous is to overindulge.

5. Temperance • On the opposite hand, the virtue

of temperance is centered on self-control and moderation. This includes consistently choosing foods/drinks that promote health, both mental and physical.

6. Kindness

6. Kindness • Kindness, or love for one's

neighbor, is the virtue which counters the sin of envy.

6. Kindness • Kindness is

manifested in the unprejudiced, compassionate and charitable concern for others.

7. Diligence

7. Diligence • Diligence, or persistence, is

the virtue which counters the sin of sloth.

7. Diligence • Diligence manifests the appropriately

zealous attitudes toward living, cooperation to complete tasks, and commitment to fulfill one’s obligations.–This includes exerting effort, seeing a task

through to the end, and honoring one’s duties, paid or unpaid.

End of Presentation 7 Contrary Virtues