Gluttony, the habitual indulgence in excessive amounts of food and drink, is addressed through various principles and specific instances throughout the scriptures. The Bible does not explicitly prohibit every instance of eating more than necessary, but it consistently cautions against behaviors associated with it, such as lack of self-control, wastefulness, and prioritizing physical desires over spiritual needs. Several passages implicitly condemn the practice by highlighting its negative consequences.
Throughout biblical history, moderation and self-discipline were seen as vital virtues, linking physical appetite to spiritual well-being. Excess was often associated with moral failings, leading to physical ailments and spiritual apathy. The Old Testament contained laws and guidelines concerning food, emphasizing moderation and responsible consumption. Similarly, in the New Testament, teachings stress self-control as a fruit of the Spirit, implying a need for temperance in all areas, including food.
