History - 7 Deadly Sins: Gluttony

The sin of gluttony isnt mentioned in the Bible, but as early as the fourth century, those of Christian faith believed that eating too much could send you to Hell. During the Dark Ages theologians believed there were seven ways to commit the sin of gluttony, from eating too much to eating too daintily. Italian writer Dante said those who committed the sin of gluttony would be punished in hell by being force-fed toads and vermin. This sin is thought to be the cause of obesity and alcoholism, and crusaders fought against the sin with everything from religious fasts to Prohibition.In this intriguing series, HISTOR examines the impact of the seven deadly sins on mankind throughout the ages.We learn how the concept originated as a way to keep a lustful fourth-century monk from sinning again and how they were pared down from eight to the seven we recognize today: gluttony, lust, greed, anger, sloth, envy, and pride. For the Catholic faithful they became a guide on the path to heaven. To repeat offenders, they promised damnation in Hell and very specific, very gruesome punishments. Gluttons, for instance, would be force-fed rats, toads and snakes.The warnings couldnt be clearer: Succumb to any of the seven deadly sins and Gods judgment will be severe.