Christian Morality: The 4 Cardinal Virtues

C.S. Lewis on Christian Behavior

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In Christian tradition there are 7 virtues, the 4 cardinal virtues:

• Prudence
• Temperance
• Justice
• Fortitude

And the 3 theological ones:

• Faith
• Hope
• Charity

The “Cardinal” virtues are those which all civilized people recognize and have been recognized since time immemorial. C.S. Lewis explains that the “Theological” are those that only Christians know about.

Prudence

Prudence means practical common sense, taking the trouble to think out what you are doing and what is likely to come of it.

The proper motto is not:

Be good, sweet maid, and let who can be clever.

— Charles Kingsley

But…

Be good, sweet maid, and don’t forget that this involves being as clever as you can.