The Seven Virtues were derived from the Psychomachia, an epic poem written by Prudentius (c. 410). Practicing these virtues is alleged to protect one against temptation toward the Seven Deadly Sins.

The seven virtues are considered by the Roman Catholic church to be those of humility, meekness, charity, chastity, moderation, zeal and generosity . These are considered to be the polar opposite of the seven deadly sins, namely pride, wrath, envy, lust, gluttony, sloth and greed.