Biblical representations of the Enneagram
In the next couple of blog posts, I wanted to take a moment to have a little Enneagram fun since we’ve tackled some deep topics over the last couple of months. Today, I wanted to take a fun journey and put together some guesses for what certain people from the Bible might be on the Enneagram! Please note that we can never type someone based on behaviors alone as their motivation, a vital component of the Enneagram, is usually hidden from us.
Type 1 - The Perfectionist:
One possible example is Moses. He exhibited a strong sense of justice and righteousness, often standing up for what is right and leading the Israelites according to God's commands. His desire for obedience to God's law and his pursuit of justice align with the Type 1 characteristics.
Type 2 - The Helper:
A potential example is Barnabas. He was known for his generosity, encouragement, and support of others within the early Christian community. Barnabas demonstrated a selfless dedication to helping and serving others, which reflects the characteristics of a Type 2.
Type 3 - The Achiever:
An example could be the Apostle Paul. He displayed exceptional ambition and a desire to succeed in his mission to spread the Gospel. Paul's ability to adapt to various situations, his drive for excellence, and his leadership qualities resonate with the traits often associated with Type 3.
Type 4 - The Individualist:
King David is often regarded as a possible example of Type 4. His psalms express a deep range of emotions, introspection, and a longing for authenticity in his relationship with God. David's unique creativity and his pursuit of a genuine connection with God align with the characteristics of a Type 4.
Type 5 - The Investigator:
A potential example is the Apostle Paul's companion, Luke. As a physician and historian, Luke demonstrated a thirst for knowledge and a meticulous attention to detail. His intellectual pursuits and dedication to researching and documenting the life of Jesus and the early Church parallel the traits of a Type 5.
Type 6 - The Loyalist:
An example from the Old Testament could be Esther. Esther finds herself in a position of influence as the queen of Persia. When confronted with a crisis that threatens the lives of her people, she initially hesitates to take action due to the potential risks involved. However, Esther ultimately demonstrates immense courage and loyalty as she risks her own life by approaching the king to advocate for her people. Her deep sense of loyalty to her Jewish heritage and her commitment to protecting and preserving her people's safety reflect the core values of Type 6.
Type 7 - The Enthusiast:
An example could be the Apostle Peter. He often displayed enthusiasm, spontaneity, and a zest for life. Peter's eagerness to experience all that Jesus had to offer and his willingness to take risks resonate with the traits typically associated with Type 7.
Type 8 - The Challenger:
A potential example is the prophet Elijah. His boldness, assertiveness, and confrontation of injustice align with the characteristics of a Type 8. Elijah's unwavering commitment to his faith and his fierce defense of God's truth reflect the traits often attributed to Type 8.
Type 9 - The Peacemaker:
An example could be the biblical figure of Abraham. He is often seen as a peacemaker and mediator, seeking to maintain harmony and resolve conflicts. Abraham's desire for unity, his ability to bring people together, and his peaceful nature reflect the traits associated with Type 9.
Once again, these examples are interpretations based on Biblical narratives, and it is important to approach them with caution. The Enneagram system did not exist during Biblical times, and these characterizations are merely fun suggestions!
