Stuff You Should Know Short Stuff: The S7VEN Deadly Sins
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Jan 21, 2026 Dive into the surprising origins of the Seven Deadly Sins, which were never officially listed in the Bible. Discover the fascinating role of Evagrius Ponticus, whose early work laid the groundwork with eight evil thoughts for monks. Learn how Pope Gregory I refined these into the notorious seven vices we know today. From medieval imagery to confession practices, the conversation explores the lasting cultural impact. Plus, hear about the Vatican's modern take on sins, addressing issues like pollution and injustice!
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Gilligan's Island As A Sins Map
- Jerry and Chuck riff on a Gilligan's Island fan theory mapping characters to the deadly sins as a playful example of cultural penetration.
- They use the cast to illustrate how the seven deadly sins appear in pop culture beyond strictly religious contexts.
Sins Are Church Constructs, Not Biblical Lists
- The seven deadly sins are widely associated with Christianity but do not appear as a list in the Bible.
- The concept originated as a later theological construct rather than a biblical enumeration.
Evagrius' Desert Origins
- Evagrius Ponticus, a 4th-century monk, first cataloged eight 'evil thoughts' while living an ascetic desert life.
- His Antirrheticus described behaviors like gluttony, lust, avarice, anger, sloth, sadness, vainglory, and pride for monastic self-discipline.
