[Article] Rebellion of the Flesh Against the Spirit

Concupiscence refers basically to the human inclination to prefer that which is sinful to that which is holy. This defect came to human beings as a result of the fall of Adam and Eve. The very inclination or impulse to sin is not a sin in itself, and when we resist the impulse or inclination to sin, we build up virtues.

Some Christian theology refers to it as the movement of the sensitive and appetitive soul contrary to the rational soul (Ming, 1908). The apostle St. Paul identifies it with the rebellion of the “flesh” against the “spirit.”(CF,Gal 5:16-18)The assertion that “the body is inclined to sin” is a theological concept that refers to the belief that human bodies have a natural inclination or predisposition towards sinful behavior.

This concept is grounded in Christian theology and is often explored in the context of the fallen nature of humanity and the doctrine of original sin. According to Christian doctrine, human beings were created in the image and likeness of God and were initially free from sin.

However, through the disobedience of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden, sin entered the world and affected all of humanity. This event, known as the Fall, resulted in a broken relationship with God and introduced a fallen and sinful nature that is passed down to all subsequent generations. The inclination to sin that is present in human bodies is believed to stem from this original sin, and referred to as concupiscence.

The Catechism of the Catholic Church (n. 405) teaches that as a consequence of original sin, human nature is weakened and inclined to evil desires. It states: “The human person, created in the image of God, is individually “capable of choosing” between good and evil and “perfected in justice” only by freely choosing what is good.

ADVERTISEMENT

However, being wounded by the original sin, all human beings experience the effects of this wounded nature, commonly referred to as concupiscence.”(CCC 1700-1703). This inclination to sin arises from the disordered desires and passions within human beings. It manifests in various forms such as selfishness, pride, greed, lust, envy, and anger.

The Church acknowledges that while human beings have the capacity for good, they are constantly engaged in an inner struggle against their sinful inclinations. The concept of the body’s inclination to sin does not imply that the body itself is inherently evil. In Christian theology, the body and the physical world are considered good and were created by God. However, due to the fallen nature of humanity, the body is subject to the effects of sin.

The recognition of the body’s inclination to sin serves as a reminder of the need for moral discipline, self-control, and reliance on God’s grace. It highlights the importance of cultivating virtues, practicing self-denial, and seeking spiritual transformation to resist sinful tendencies and grow in holiness. It emphasizes the fallen nature of humanity and the ongoing struggle against sinful desires, while highlighting the need for redemption, grace, and the transformative power of God’s love and mercy.

In the context of theology and Church documents, the concept of the body’s inclination to sin has been explored in more detail by various Christian theologians and addressed in official documents. One of the influential figures in the development of this concept is St. Augustine of Hippo, a prominent theologian of the fourth and fifth centuries. He argued that the fallen nature of humanity, including the inclination to sin, is transmitted through the process of procreation(St Augustine). This understanding greatly shaped Western Christian thought.

Similarly, the Council of Trent (1545-1563) affirmed the reality of original sin and concupiscence but emphasized that these inclinations, although powerful, are not considered sinful in themselves unless acted upon with full consent of the will(O’Neil, 1912). This theological basis invited the notion that the body’s inclination to sin does not absolve individuals of personal responsibility for their actions.

The theological understanding of concupiscence explains the need for moral discernment and the cultivation of virtues to resist temptation and make right choices. Christian theology emphasizes that individuals are still accountable for their actions and should strive for moral integrity and holiness(cf. 1 Peter 3:8-12).

Christian theology also emphasizes the role of redemption and God’s grace in counteracting the inclination to sin(St Bernard). Through the saving work of Jesus Christ, Christians believe that individuals can be transformed and empowered to resist sinful tendencies. The sacraments, prayer, Scripture, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit are considered essential means for seeking spiritual growth and overcoming the inclination to sin. The Catholic Church’s teaching on virtues often states the importance of cultivating virtues such as humility, temperance, chastity, and love to counteract the inclination to sin.

By developing these virtues, individuals can align their desires and actions with God’s will, leading to moral and spiritual growth. It is worth noting that the concept of the body’s inclination to sin may vary slightly in different Christian traditions and theological perspectives. However, the overall understanding of the fallen nature of humanity and the ongoing struggle against sin remains foundational in Christian theology.

In conclusion, the assertion that concupiscence is a theological concept rooted in Christian doctrine, particularly the understanding of original sin and the Fall. It refers to the belief that human beings possess an inherent tendency or inclination towards engaging in sinful behavior, driven by the physical or bodily aspects of their existence.

It recognizes that human bodies have a natural inclination towards sinful behavior but emphasizes the importance of moral discipline, reliance on divine grace, and the cultivation of virtues to resist these inclinations. In many religious and philosophical systems, the body is seen as the seat of desires, passions, and impulses that can lead individuals astray morally.

This inclination to sin is often contrasted with the idea of the soul or the spirit, which is considered to be the higher, more virtuous aspect of human nature(St Augustine). According to this perspective, the body’s predisposition towards sin creates a struggle or conflict between the body and the soul, leading to the potential for moral transgressions.

The concept emphasizes the fallen state of humanity, symbolizing the imperfect and flawed nature of human existence. Moreover, various philosophical theories have also explored and discussed this notion. Friedrich Nietzsche, a prominent 19th-century philosopher, critiqued the perceived negative view of the body and argued for a reevaluation of bodily desires and instincts.

Critics of this concept argue that it can lead to a negative view of the body, denying its potential for positive experiences and virtues. They assert that it can also result in a guilt-ridden and repressive mindset, inhibiting individuals from embracing their physicality without assuming it will inevitably lead to sin or immoral behavior.

Therefore, the concept of concupiscence has played a significant role in shaping ethical and moral perspectives within religious and philosophical discourse. It highlights the complex relationship between the body and morality, inviting reflection on human nature, free will, and the pursuit of moral virtue.

Bibliography

1. Catholic Church.(2000) Catechism of the Catholic Church(2^nd ed.).Our Sunday Visitor.
2. Ming, J. (1908). Concupiscence. In The Catholic Encyclopedia. New York: Robert Appleton Company. http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/04208a.htm
3. O’Neil, A.C. (1912). Sin. In The Catholic Encyclopedia.New York: Robert Appleton Company. http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/14004b.htm
4. Smith, A. (2015). Unleashing Desires: Unraveling the Inclination of the Body towards Sin. Chicago, IL: Publisher.
5. Johnson, R. (2018). The Sinful Nature: Understanding the Predisposition of the Human Body to Sin. Boston, MA: Publisher.
6. Brown, M. (2012). Lust and Longing: A Study on the Carnal Desires of the Body. San Francisco, CA: Publisher.
7. Thompson, L. (2017). The Fallen Flesh: Deconstructing the Natural Urge towards Sin. Los Angeles, CA: Publisher.
8. Wilson, S. (2019). Confronting Temptations: Overcoming the Inclination of the Body to Sin. Houston, TX: Publisher.
9. Letter 190, in Sancti Bernardi Opera(Rome: Editiones Cistercienses, 1957), VIII: 37.
10. https://catholicgentleman.com/2013/08/the-cardinal-virtues-fortitude/
11. Confessions Book II Chapter 2