Summary

On this episode Amy Davis and Alexa Cramer examine the Enneagram’s influence on faith and family. They question the Enneagram’s purported ability to peel back layers to our ‘true self’ and the implications it has on how we interpret scripture, raise our children, and understand our own identities. They Explore how it stands apart from other personality systems like Myers-Briggs and the Big Five, while also addressing the potential for the Enneagram’s descriptions to act as a ‘rainbow ruse’—catch-all phrases that seem insightful but may just echo our own thoughts back to us.

They also take a critical look at the flexible nature of the Enneagram, which can dangerously morph into a justification for our behaviors, much like astrological signs do for interpersonal compatibility. The discussion takes a step further into the murky waters of the Enneagram’s history, challenging the unverified claims of its ancient origins and dissecting its unsettling ties to questionable practices. Be ready for a revealing exploration of how this system may feed into a new age worldview, potentially impacting our spiritual journey and understanding of morality.

The episode wraps up by navigating the philosophical ramifications of ascribing to a personality number and the effects it could have on the Christian faith, especially in light of influential figures like Richard Rohr. We share resources and insights to propel deeper understanding and more grounded discussions around the Enneagram within the Christian community. Join us as we encourage a thoughtful approach to these complex conversations, emphasizing the importance of prayer, truth-seeking, and a loving heart when approaching topics that intertwine with our core beliefs and values.

Main Points Covered

• What is the enneagram
• What is the history of the enneagram
• What type of worldview does it teach
• How can you engage with people around the enneagram?

People and Resources Mentioned

• A Crash Course in the Enneagram (Part 1)
• The Enneagram Part 2
• The Enneagram Part 3
• Enneagram Shaming is Not the Way Forward
• Richard Rohr and the Enneagram Secret
• Additional Enneagram Resources

Unfamiliar Vocabulary

• Enneagram: The Enneagram is a system of typology that classifies human personality into nine basic types.
• Outs: Escape routes that allow you to not take accountability.
• Rainbow Ruse Statements: Catch-all phrases that seem insightful but may just echo our own thoughts back to us.
• Automatic Writing: Writing said to be produced by a spiritual, occult, or subconscious agency rather than by the conscious intention of the writer.
• Worldview: A worldview is a lens through which we interpret the world around us.
• Heretical: The formal denial or doubt of a core doctrine of the Christian faith as defined by one or more of the Christian churches.

Quotable Quotes

“The statements are actually very generic. The enneagram is really not telling you much. You’re doing a lot more work than you think you are.” -Alexa Cramer

“There is no need for a savior within the Enneagram, you just have to find the right path” – Amy Davison

We are all in this together, so sometimes our posts are a bit of all of us.

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