Sin

We are generally familiar with the 7 cardinal sins. Lust, Gluttony, Greed, Sloth, Wrath, Envy and Pride. Most of us have probably slodged our way through every one at some point or another. But these are not really sins at all.

Anything can become a sin when you violate another being, whether it be plant, animal, human, or a larger scope like nature and the Earth. Someone can violate another's sexuality, health, take their money or resources, twist their emotions, manipulate their beliefs or religion... even a persons soul can be violated. By the way... you can violate yourself too.

Violation is sin. These "cardinal sins" are actually attributes the define the worst kind of violations. That's all they are. They are not sins in themselves and this is something you will never see in the bible.

Part of the Wiccan creed: "...an it hurt no one" pretty much sums it up in terms of NOT sinning.

Breaking down each attribute is easy. Here is a Not-sin/Sin comparison.

Lust:
Not a sin: You can stick your dick in every hole in the world, or have one stuck in yours as long as the other is consensual and wanting to share the experience.
Sin: To rape and or murder someone for sex is sin.

Gluttony:
Not a sin: Overeating is not a sin in itself. It might be a disorder that needs treatment.
Sin: But if your gluttony takes food from another's mouth then it is a sin. If it strips them of resources then it is a sin.

Greed:
Not a sin: We all would have better lives with money. Having a strong desire or being greedy for more money isn't a bad thing if it is hard earned and doesn't violate the lives of others.
Sin: If your wealth comes off the backs of others, then it is a sin. You are violating their quality of life.

Sloth:
Not a sin: We all need periods of it (or laziness) in this day and age. It may actually be needed sometimes to recover and recuperate from our insane pace in life.
Sin: Sloth as a sin may be habitual. Late for everything, including work. Lack of productiveness at work and at home, etc.... This is a violation of both yourself and those who rely on you.

Wrath:
Not a sin: Wrath has levels. It can be used to channel change through things like activism. A certain level of anger can even clear ones head and provide a forceful argument against corruption and oppression.
Sin: But wrath can kill. Intentional injury, or killing any other being is definitely sin.

Envy:
Not a sin: Envy is another attribute that can be channeled. "I want to be like that rock star, so I'm going to learn how to play music". Envy, redirected in a positive way can help you grow.
Sin: Envy as a sin is a destroyer of friendships and relationships. It is a source of gossip, mental manipulation and toxic atmospheres in the home or workplace.

Pride:
Not a sin: Pride in your achievements is a good thing. Even healthy. It releases Dopamine which helps you feel rewarded for your efforts.
Sin: Prideful people have a similar influence as envious people. They can also poison a home or workplace.

These are the worst attributes of sin. However there are milder versions as well but describing them would be complex.
Just a quick overview of them would be:
- Intentional violation of another being is the worst kind.
- Unintentional violation of another being is nearly as bad.
- Hurting another in any way is a sin, even if the intention is for a benefit in the long term (like a white lie). That is why it becomes more difficult to define from here on out.

Don't see sin as literal translation from the bible. See it as a need to always be vigilant in the way you treat other people.