In this profound lecture, Fr. John Hardon, S.J., explores the nature of the seven capital sins (pride, lust, anger, covetousness, envy, sloth, and gluttony). He defines these not as individual acts of sin, but as the inordinate tendencies rooted in our fallen human nature—a concept often overlooked in modern psychological approaches.
Key takeaways from Fr. Hardon’s teaching include:
- The Nature of Concupiscence: Understanding that these sinful drives are present from conception (0:03:27) and are not fully removed by Baptism, necessitating constant vigilance and grace.
- The Goal of Humility: Why God allows us to experience these struggles—to keep us humble and to remind us that we cannot master our passions through willpower alone (0:19:49).
- Practical Remedies: Fr. Hardon provides actionable advice on overcoming each vice, emphasizing that even legitimate human desires (like eating, resting, or seeking excellence) must be ordered toward God to avoid falling into sin.
Whether you are looking to deepen your prayer life or seeking a clearer understanding of traditional Catholic moral theology, this talk is a vital resource for navigating the spiritual battle
