The Enneagram: A Controversial Personality Tool in Christian Circles
- True You Ministries
- Jun 21
- 2 min read
Updated: 3 days ago
Understanding the Origins of the Enneagram
The Enneagram is a personality typing system that has recently gained popularity in churches and among Christians. However, it is crucial to recognize that the Enneagram's roots lie not in Christianity but in the occult and New Age practices.
The system was initially developed by George Gurdjieff, a mystic who ascribed spiritual significance to the Enneagram. Later, Oscar Ichazo and Claudio Naranjo contributed to its development by identifying specific personality types. Notably, Naranjo received information about these types through automatic writing, a method often associated with communicating with spirits.
The Enneagram's Journey into the Church
The Enneagram found its way into the Catholic Church through Jesuit priest Bob Oakes, although it was never officially endorsed. Richard Rohr, a Franciscan priest with controversial theological views, further popularized the Enneagram within Christian communities, especially with his influential book in the early 1990s. Rohr adheres to panentheism, an idea suggesting that God is in everything. He also promotes a distorted understanding of Jesus Christ.
The Rise of Enneagram Coaching
As the Enneagram gained traction in progressive Christian circles, many Christian coaches began to offer Enneagram training. However, these coaches often received their training from practitioners deeply rooted in New Age philosophies and some even claimed to have psychic abilities. This raises significant concerns regarding the compatibility of the Enneagram with core Christian beliefs.
The Biblical Perspective on Divination
The Bible explicitly warns against divination, sorcery, spellcasting, and consulting with ghosts or spirits. These practices are regarded as detestable to God and can seriously harm one's spiritual health. Some may argue that the Enneagram is merely a tool for understanding personality. Nonetheless, its dubious origins and connections to the occult force us to scrutinize its safety and appropriateness for Christians.
The Alternative: Seeking Identity Through Christ
Rather than relying on the Enneagram or other personality assessments, Christians are encouraged to pursue self-awareness through a relationship with Jesus Christ. By immersing ourselves in God's word and seeking divine guidance, we discover our true identity and purpose in life. The Enneagram may appear harmless, but its underlying ties to occult and New Age practices should give Christians pause.
Finding Truth in Scripture
It is essential to remain discerning and prioritize the pursuit of truth and wisdom from God's word. Ultimately, only through a faithful relationship with Christ can individuals hope to find deep self-understanding. This is the cornerstone of the Christian faith.
Conclusion: A Call for Discernment
As the popularity of the Enneagram continues to grow among Christians, it calls for careful consideration. Are we seeking fulfillment in tools that may undermine our faith? Fostering a spiritual life aligned with Scripture should take precedence. With a focus on Jesus, we can avoid potentially harmful spiritual practices.
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Additional Resources for Understanding Christian Spirituality
For those seeking further insights into Christian spirituality and growth, consider exploring resources that emphasize biblical teachings and the importance of discernment in every aspect of life. Christian faith is about embracing truth, wisdom, and love, which ultimately guide us to a deeper relationship with God.
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