The term "capital sin" refers to a serious or grave sin in Catholic theology. The spelling of this phrase follows the standard English pronunciation rules. "Capital" is pronounced /ˈkæp.ɪ.təl/, with stress on the first syllable, and "sin" is pronounced /sɪn/. The sound /k/ in "capital" is followed by a short vowel sound /æ/, then the sound /p/. The last syllable is pronounced with a short /əl/ sound. The word "sin" is a single syllable with the sound /s/ followed by the vowel sound /ɪ/ and the final consonant /n/.
Capital sin, also known as mortal sin or cardinal sin, refers to a grave offense against moral law in Christian theology. It denotes a deliberate and intentional violation of the divine law, which may result in spiritual death and eternal damnation if not repented. Capital sins are considered the most serious transgressions, representing the root vices or fundamental tendencies that lie at the core of human wrongdoing.
Derived from the Latin term "caput" meaning "head," capital sin is viewed as the head or source from which other sins arise. Traditionally, seven sins are classified as capital sins: pride, greed, lust, envy, sloth, gluttony, and wrath. These sins are considered to be particularly destructive to the soul and have the potential to lead to other sins.
Capital sins are characterized by their deliberate nature, as they involve a conscious decision to commit an offense despite knowing it to be wrong. They stand in contrast to venial sins, which are less serious offenses that do not sever the individual's relationship with God. The gravity of capital sins stems from their deliberate rejection of God's law and their potential to harm oneself and others.
The concept of capital sin underscores the importance of moral awareness, free will, and personal responsibility in Christian theology. It serves as a reminder of the consequences of deliberate and severe wrongdoing and encourages individuals to seek repentance, forgiveness, and spiritual growth in order to restore their relationship with God.
The term "capital sin" originated from the Christian theological tradition, particularly from the works of early Christian theologians and the medieval Church. The word "capital" comes from the Latin "caput", meaning "head". In this context, it refers to the head or source from which other sins arise. These sins are considered "capital" because they are viewed as the root or foundation of other sins.
The concept of capital sins, also known as "deadly sins" or "cardinal sins", was first formulated by early Christian monks in the 4th century. Evagrius Ponticus, a Christian monk and theologian, identified eight main vices: gluttony, lust, avarice, sadness, anger, acedia (spiritual laziness), vainglory, and pride.