Which virtue is opposed by covetousness?

• A. Contentment
• B. Envy
• C. Avarice
• D. Theft

Answer: (A)

Covetousness is an excessive, disordered desire for wealth and possessions. It keeps a person restless, never satisfied, chasing more stuff and doubting that what they have is enough. The virtue that counteracts this attitude is contentment—the habit of being satisfied with what one has, grateful for it, and trusting that one has enough. When covetousness rules the heart, it undermines gratitude and generosity; with contentment, the mind rests in sufficiency and can freely share and be at peace. Envy describes resenting others’ good, which is a different flaw; avarice is another term for greed itself, not its opposite; theft is a harmful action that could arise from coveting, but it is not the virtue that stands opposite to covetousness.