The Eighth Combat: Pride

The Institutes, the Conferences and On the Incarnation

The Institutes, Book 12

The Eighth Combat: Pride

Our eighth and last battle is against the spirit of pride. Although this evil comes latest in our conflict with our faults and stands last on the list, in its beginning and in order of time it is the first. It is a most savage beast, more dreadful than all the ones before it, trying above all those who are perfect, and devouring with its dreadful bite those who have nearly reached the summit of virtue.