What are the seven virtues?
Although the concept of seven virtues is associated with Christianity, in fact it has preceded several centuries. Most attribute Plato philosopher with a list of several of them. It should be noted that the idea of defining the virtuous ways of being is not limited to Christianity - Bushido also describes the code, followed by the Japanese samurai, although it differs from traditional Christian lists. Theologians and theorists can define virtues differently and have undergone some changes. Other virtues of St. Paul is called theological and are faith and hope. The remaining four virtues that are usually listed are called cardinal virtues and philosophers as St. Augustine and Thomas Aquinas have developed definitive lists.
Cardinal virtues are:
- Caution
- Justice
- restriction
- courage or bravery: a force that has difficult things or to be brave in the face of obstacles.
As already mentioned, theological virtues are:
- faith
- hope
- Love or Charity: Love and Charity are often considered together and generally mean negotiations selflessly with love for others.
Another list of seven virtues was developed as a counterweight to seven deadly sins that are lust, gluttony, greed, laziness, anger, envy and pride. The opposing qualities that Christians should have are: chastity, temperament, charity, carefulness, patience, kindness and humility. When people were directed to achieve and manifest these qualities, they could avoid seven deadly sins.
Sometimes Christians add eight virtues to the list of virtues - justice. Some, however, claim that the other virur would include justice, especially charity and temperance.
Bushido is translated as a "path of warrior" and it was a knight code of behavior followed by a Japanese samuraj based on Buddhism theories and Confucianism. In the bushidoThe individual must also monitor seven virtues. It is direct courage, courage, benevolence, respect, honesty, loyalty and honor.
other groups have or have similar codes, including European knights during the medieval period. Although lists of virtues varied, some generally included courage, justice, nobility, mercy, faith, hope and strength. Of course, some of the virtues for the knights had more in common with the practical development of skills. For example, being a good rider could be considered a knightly virtue.
There are other similar ideas in philosophy and religion. Confucianism is obtained through five correct relationships defined as a father/son, an older brother/younger brother, husband, younger people and subject/ruler. In Buddhism, the noble eight -time path defines those ways to free yourself from suffering. This is the right view, the right intention, the right speech, the right action, the right living, the right effort, withLegal mindfulness and correct concentration. Basically, the idea of virtues is not unique for Christianity, and many philosophies and religion far before, as it preceded, asked followers to act or "be" in some way as a means to achieve some kind of salvation or order.