Concupiscence

Concupiscence refers to the human appetites and desires that remain disordered due to the temporal consequences of Original Sin — present in every human being after the Fall, and remaining even after Baptism. It produces an inclination toward sin (CCC 1264, 2515).

What Concupiscence Is

Concupiscence is not sin itself — it is the inclination toward sin that results from the disorder introduced by Original Sin. In the unfallen state, human desires were perfectly ordered by reason and will toward God. After the Fall, this right order was disrupted: the passions (hunger, fear, anger, sexual desire) are no longer fully obedient to reason, and reason itself no longer perfectly submits to God (CCC 405).

Concupiscence Remains After Baptism

Baptism forgives the guilt of Original Sin and restores sanctifying grace, but it does not remove concupiscence. The inclination toward sin remains as a source of spiritual struggle throughout life — what Paul calls "the law of sin" at war within him (Romans 7:23). This is not a moral failing — it is the condition of the Christian life, to be overcome through grace, virtue, prayer, and the sacraments (CCC 1264).

Frequently Asked Questions

Is concupiscence itself a sin? No. Concupiscence — the inclination toward sin — is not itself sinful. Sin requires the will's free consent. Temptation arising from concupiscence is an occasion for virtue, not itself a moral failure. Paul acknowledges this struggle honestly in Romans 7:14–25 (CCC 1264, 2515).

Does concupiscence mean the body is bad? No. The body is good — created by God and destined for resurrection. Concupiscence is not the body itself but the disordering of its desires relative to reason and God. The goal is not to suppress the body but to integrate it rightly through virtue and grace (CCC 362, 1264).