What is the 8th deadly sin?

The concept of the “seven deadly sins” is deeply rooted in Christian theology and Western culture. These sins—pride, greed, lust, envy, gluttony, wrath, and sloth—have long been considered the root of humanity’s moral failings. But what about the so-called “eighth deadly sin”? Is there such a thing, and if so, what does it represent?

While there is no official eighth deadly sin in traditional doctrine, the idea has intrigued theologians, writers, and thinkers for centuries. This blog post explores the origin of the seven deadly sins, why some people propose an eighth, and what candidates have been considered for this unofficial addition to the infamous list.

The Origin of the Seven Deadly Sins

The seven deadly sins were first formalized by Pope Gregory I in the 6th century and later adopted by Thomas Aquinas in his theological writings. They were not originally outlined in the Bible as a single list, but rather developed over time through reflection on passages that warned against various vices. The purpose of articulating these seven particular sins was to help people recognize the basic tendencies that lead to other sinful actions. Over the centuries, the list has served as a guide for confession, moral teaching, and even artistic inspiration.

Why Consider an Eighth Sin?

Despite the canonical list, people have often speculated about the possibility of an eighth deadly sin. This curiosity arises for several reasons. First, society evolves, and new forms of destructive behavior emerge that were not foreseen by early theologians. Second, the seven deadly sins focus on individual moral failings, but some believe there are vices especially relevant to contemporary life that deserve similar scrutiny. Finally, the idea of adding an “eighth sin” can serve as a creative or provocative way to discuss modern ethical concerns.

Throughout history, writers and preachers have nominated various candidates for an eighth deadly sin, based on observed moral and social problems of their time.

Candidates for the Eighth Deadly Sin

Despair

One of the most historically discussed contenders for the eighth deadly sin is despair. Early Christian thinkers, especially in medieval times, considered despair—a loss of faith in God’s mercy—as spiritually dangerous. It was seen as a rejection of hope and the belief that redemption was possible. While despair is not officially one of the seven, it has often been called the “unforgivable sin” because it denies the power of God’s love and forgiveness.

Hypocrisy

Another candidate is hypocrisy—pretending to have virtues or beliefs that one does not actually possess. In the Gospels, Jesus frequently rebukes religious leaders for hypocrisy, placing great emphasis on sincerity and inner honesty. Some argue that, given the damage caused by hypocrisy in religious and public life, it deserves a place alongside the traditional seven.

Indifference

In the modern era, indifference—especially toward suffering or injustice—has been described as a grave moral failing. Philosopher and Holocaust survivor Elie Wiesel famously declared that the opposite of love is not hate, but indifference. In a world facing widespread inequality, violence, and environmental crisis, indifference can be seen as a root cause of many social ills, leading some to propose it as the eighth deadly sin.

Other Suggestions

Other vices occasionally suggested include cowardice, cruelty, abuse of power, and even “boredom” as a spiritual malaise. Each reflects concerns relevant to particular eras or communities.

Theological and Cultural Significance

While these ideas are thought-provoking, it’s important to note that the seven deadly sins are not “deadly” because of their number, but because they are seen as capital vices—sources from which other sins flow. The enduring power of the list lies in its ability to prompt self-examination and repentance. The discussion about an eighth deadly sin highlights how moral reflection evolves with society. It also invites people to consider which vices are most harmful in their own lives and times.

The Eighth Sin in Literature and Popular Culture

The idea of an eighth deadly sin has made its way into literature, film, and pop culture. Authors and artists sometimes use the concept to critique contemporary society or satirize modern obsessions. For example, in the digital age, some have jokingly labeled “procrastination,” “narcissism,” or “ignorance” as the unofficial eighth sin, reflecting how new vices emerge with changing technology and lifestyles.

Conclusion: A Living Conversation About Vice and Virtue

There is no official eighth deadly sin recognized by the Catholic Church or mainstream Christian teaching. However, the ongoing conversation about what could or should be added to the list underscores humanity’s constant struggle with moral failings. Whether it’s despair, hypocrisy, indifference, or another modern vice, these discussions remind us to stay vigilant about the ways we fall short—not just as individuals, but as a society.