Within the medieval church, gluttony is one of the seven so-called deadly sins (cardinal sins). They are mortal, or deadly, sins because they destroy the spiritual virtue of the sinner. They are also all indicative of some kind of lack of self-control that puts the sinner as a priority over other people and over God. Further, these sins are seen as the origin of other sins.
Gluttony does not merely refer to overeating and excessive drinking. It is any excessive desire for food and drink. This desire is seen as selfishness that leads the sinner away from God. In indulging in eating and drinking to excess, the glutton puts his/her own well-being above the interests of others. The excess food and drink consumed are then not available to those who may truly need it. Further, gluttony may lead to other sins, as it is a sign that the glutton is focusing on his/her desires rather than living his/her life according to the teachings of the church.
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