Why vanity is a sin

How does vanity differ from the other two root sins of pride and sensuality? Briefly, we could describe pride as the sin whereby we put ourselves first, ahead of God; sensuality is where we put things first; and vanity is where we put the esteem of others first.

Like the other root sins, vanity springs from insecurity. We place our security in what others think of us. We constantly seek the affirmation, praise and respect of other people.

This differs from the situation where we may desire that our qualities be recognized in order that God be glorified and that we have more influence to bring about good. Having and guarding a reputation for honesty, for instance, might help us to attract others to join us in doing charitable deeds. Vanity can also manifest itself in shyness. We might worry so much about being accepted that we close in on ourselves and avoid contact with people.

This root sin can also trigger sins against purity. In such cases, it is not the illicit physical pleasure that is sought as much as the feeling of being accepted by another. Such friendships can quickly lead to jealousies and bruised egos. After he spoke of the time the people tempted the Lord when they worshipped a golden calf, he states the following.

The word Kibrothhattaavah, in Hebrew, means " the graves of lust. Vanity sometimes referred to as pride in Scripture occurs when we decide something makes us an overall better or more valuable individual than others. The definition of lust includes far more than strongly desiring illicit sex Matthew , Romans It is the intense desire and demand that we have something because we decide we need it. Vanity ultimately seeks validation in the eyes of others.

For example, the devil not only wants to rule everything, but also is vain enough to think he is deserving of worship which will happen in the end time. This worship will underscore, to him, his believed superiority Isaiah - 14, Revelation - 8. Lust, however, simply demands from others what we do not have. Both of these ways of thinking are quite similar. How to leave vanity? See also: What does the Bible say about makeup? Related Posts: What does God say about sin?

What is sin? Why is atonement of sin necessary? Ways to get rid of sin What was the sin of Ananias and Sapphira? Who was Achan? However, it would not be singled out as one of the big seven sins if there were not a downside to vanity. It causes him to covet the flattery of others, purposing every action for acknowledgment and praise.

Vanity and judgment always go hand in hand. Vanity cannot arise without judgment. Things can go south when one starts to base their work and energy on generating positive judgment from others. Sometimes the wise, good, and morally right thing to do will make you very unpopular. If you have become addicted to praise, then it will weaken your ability to stand up for what is right. By Meg Selig, Aug. Essentially, vanity is a weird spark of insecurity as Jonathan Swift pointed out mixed with a splash of pride.