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Temperance

Definition​

  • temperance (sōphrosunē) is the mean of pleasure (hēdonē) and pain (lupē): between licentiousness, intemperance, profligacy, dissipation, etc. (akolasia) and insensibility (anaisthētos)
  • moderation or voluntary self-restraint
  • perfected: not having vicious desires
  • attributes:
    • sustainable
    • independent

Sustainability of Temperance​

  • autonomy
  • cycle of Temperance
  • contentment

Sub-virtues​

  • inner sincerity
  • autonomy
  • chastity
  • modesty
  • humility
  • self-regulation, self-restraint
  • hospitality
  • decorum
  • abstinence
  • continence
  • forgiveness

Dependencies​

  • Major
    • Abundance: encourages and makes Temperance sustainable
    • Charity: the joy of giving may bring about additional Temperance. The willpower of self-restraint can encourage Voluntarism (Charity)
    • Justice: the arguments coming from Justice may justify Temperance. Justice is discovered easier by the temperate.

Correspondences​

  • Islam
    • Akhlaq (Good Character and Manners): The Prophet Muhammad placed great emphasis on good character, kindness, forgiveness, and courtesy in interactions.
    • Haya (Modesty and Humility): It involves modesty not just in dress and behavior but also in attitude, promoting humility and decency.
  • Christianity
    • Temperance: Self-control and moderation in all things.
    • Humility: Often considered the greatest virtue in Orthodoxy, humility is the foundation of a true Christian life.
  • Judaism
    • Shalom (Peace): Shalom goes beyond the absence of conflict and encompasses completeness, welfare, and harmony in all aspects of life.
    • Kavod (Honor/Respect): Showing respect for the inherent dignity of all people is a key virtue in Judaism.
  • Buddhism
    • Khanti: patience, tolerance, forbearance, acceptance, endurance
    • Upekkhā: equanimity, serenity
  • Hinduism
    • Asteya (अस्तेय): Not stealing
    • Satya (सत्य): Truthfulness (Not lying)
    • Ahiṃsā (अहिंसा): Nonviolence
    • Brahmacharya (ब्रह्मचर्य): Chastity, marital fidelity, sexual restraint
    • Santosha (सन्तोष): contentment, acceptance of others and one's circumstances as they are, optimism for self
  • Classical Greek
    • Sophrosyne (Temperance/Moderation): This virtue represents self-control, moderation, and a balanced life. It was considered essential for achieving harmony and avoiding excess.
    • Xenia (Hospitality): Highly praised and embedded in Greek custom, xenia is the generosity and courtesy shown to those who are far from home.
  • Taoism
    • Moderation (中庸, Zhong Yong): Advocating for a balanced, moderate approach to life, avoiding extremes, and maintaining equilibrium.
  • Confucianism
    • Jié (节; 節, Continence): self-control, especially in the context of desires and impulses
    • frugality (俭; jiǎn)