What Was Jesus’ Enneagram Type? Uncovering the Theory Behind

Key Takeaways

• The Enneagram is a personality typing system that was not developed until many centuries after Jesus’ time, so it’s impossible to know for certain what his Enneagram type would be.
• However, based on the accounts of Jesus’ life and teachings in the Bible, many Enneagram enthusiasts and theologians have made educated guesses about his possible type.
• Some popular theories suggest that Jesus might have been a Type 3 (The Achiever) or Type 9 (The Peacemaker), due to his reported calm and composed demeanor, as well as his focus on achieving his mission and bringing people together.
• Others propose that Jesus might have been a Type 6 (The Loyalist), given his emphasis on loyalty and commitment to his followers and his teachings.
• Jesus’ ability to connect with people from all walks of life and his emphasis on empathy and compassion might also suggest Type 2 (The Helper) or Type 4 (The Individualist) tendencies.
• It’s worth noting that the Enneagram is not a scientifically proven system, and applying it to historical figures like Jesus is purely speculative. For more information on the Enneagram, see Enneagram personality theory.

Introduction

Brief Explanation of the Enneagram

So, what’s the Enneagram?

It’s a personality typing system that helps us understand ourselves and others better.

Imagine having a map to navigate your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors – that’s kinda what the Enneagram is.

It’s not a perfect system, but it can be a powerful tool for personal growth and self-awareness.

Connection of the Enneagram to Jesus

Now, you might be wondering, what does the Enneagram have to do with Jesus?

Well, if we can understand Jesus’ personality type, we might gain some insight into His thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.

It’s not about putting Jesus in a box or reducing Him to a personality type, but about understanding Him as a person.

Importance of Understanding Jesus’ Enneagram Type

So, why does it matter what Jesus’ Enneagram type is?

For one, it can help us relate to Him on a deeper level.

If we can understand His motivations, desires, and fears, we might be able to connect with Him in a more meaningful way.

Enneagram Type	Possible Insights into Jesus’ Personality
Type 3 (The Achiever)	Jesus’ drive to accomplish His mission, His focus on results
Type 6 (The Loyalist)	Jesus’ commitment to His friends and followers, His desire for security

“And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.” (John 1:14, KJV)

To set the stage for our discussion, here’s a visual representation of the most significant terms and ideas we’ll be unpacking throughout this article.

Word cloud by BibleBreathe.com about theoretically, what was jesus enneagram

Understanding the Enneagram

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Definition and History of the Enneagram

So, what’s the Enneagram all about?

The Enneagram is a personality typing system that’s been around for a while – its roots go back to ancient Greece and Christianity.

It’s not just some fancy psychological tool, but a way to understand ourselves and others better.

The word “Enneagram” comes from the Greek words “ennea” (nine) and “gramma” (written symbol).

It’s based on nine distinct personality types, each with its own motivations, fears, and desires.

Nine Enneagram Types

Here are the nine Enneagram types:

• The Reformer (Type 1): driven by a desire to be good and right
• The Helper (Type 2): motivated by a need to be loved and valued
• The Achiever (Type 3): focused on success and achievement
• The Individualist (Type 4): expressing themselves and their emotions
• The Investigator (Type 5): analyzing and understanding the world
• The Loyalist (Type 6): seeking security and stability
• The Enthusiast (Type 7): living life to the fullest and seeking new experiences
• The Challenger (Type 8): taking control and asserting themselves
• The Peacemaker (Type 9): seeking harmony and balance

The Enneagram’s Purpose in Personal Growth

So, why is the Enneagram important for personal growth?

It helps us understand our strengths and weaknesses, and how we interact with others.

By knowing our Enneagram type, we can:

• Identify areas for improvement: recognizing our flaws and working on them
• Develop self-awareness: understanding our motivations and desires
• Improve relationships: communicating more effectively with others

“For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he…” (Proverbs 23:7, KJV)

By understanding the Enneagram, we can gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and others, and live more authentic, meaningful lives.

Jesus’ Teachings and Actions

Overview of Jesus’ Teachings and Actions

Let’s dive into Jesus’ teachings and actions.

We can learn a lot about His personality and character by looking at what He said and did.

Jesus was all about love and compassion, and that’s reflected in His teachings and actions.

Teaching/Action	What it Reveals About Jesus
The Sermon on the Mount	Jesus’ emphasis on love, forgiveness, and humility shows His heart for people.
Healing the sick and feeding the hungry	Jesus’ actions demonstrate His compassion and care for those in need.

Key Characteristics that Can be Used to Determine His Enneagram Type

So, what can we learn about Jesus’ Enneagram type from His teachings and actions?

Here are three key characteristics that might give us a clue:

• Selflessness: Jesus was all about serving others and putting their needs before His own. This selflessness is a key trait of certain Enneagram types.
• Emotional intelligence: Jesus was incredibly empathetic and understanding, often meeting people where they were at. This emotional intelligence is a hallmark of certain Enneagram types.
• Courage in the face of adversity: Jesus stood up to the Pharisees and challenged the status quo, even when it was hard. This courage is a key characteristic of certain Enneagram types.

“For even the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.” (Mark 10:45, KJV)

“You can’t know the future, but you can know the heart of the One who holds the future.” – Charles R. Swindoll

Jesus as a Type One

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Explanation of Type One Characteristics

So, what does it mean to be a Type One?

In the Enneagram, Type Ones are known as The Reformers.

They’re all about being good, doing the right thing, and making the world a better place.

Here are some key characteristics of Type Ones:

• Perfectionistic: Type Ones strive to be perfect and often have high standards for themselves and others.
• Self-controlled: They tend to be disciplined and responsible, with a strong sense of duty.
• Critical: Type Ones can be quite critical of themselves and others, always looking for ways to improve.

Evidence of Jesus Embodying Type One Traits

Now, let’s look at Jesus’ life and see if we can spot any Type One tendencies.

Type One Trait	Evidence in Jesus’ Life
Perfectionistic	Jesus was perfect in every way, fulfilling the law and being sinless (Hebrews 4:15, KJV).
Self-controlled	Jesus was tempted in the wilderness, but He resisted Satan’s temptations (Matthew 4:1-11, KJV).

Here are three key ways Jesus embodied Type One traits:

• Jesus’ perfection: Jesus was the ultimate example of perfection, living a sinless life and fulfilling the law.
• Jesus’ self-control: Jesus showed incredible self-control in the face of temptation, resisting Satan’s attempts to lead Him astray.
• Jesus’ criticism of hypocrisy: Jesus wasn’t afraid to speak out against hypocrisy and injustice, calling out the Pharisees for their wrong actions.

“Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.” (Matthew 5:48, KJV)

It’s interesting to note that while Jesus embodied some Type One traits, He also transcended them.

He wasn’t bound by the same rules and expectations as humans, and He showed us a different way of living – one that’s not just about following rules, but about loving God and loving others.

Jesus as a Type Two

Explanation of Type Two Characteristics

So, what does it mean to be a Type Two?

In the Enneagram, Type Twos are known as the “Helpers” or “Givers”.

They’re all about loving and supporting others, and they get a sense of identity and self-worth from doing so.

Here are some key characteristics of Type Twos:

• Generous and giving: Type Twos are always looking for ways to help others and make them happy.
• Empathetic and understanding: They’ve got a gift for understanding people’s emotions and needs.
• People-pleasers: Type Twos often put others’ needs before their own, which can be both a strength and a weakness.

Evidence of Jesus Embodying Type Two Traits

Now, let’s look at Jesus’ life and see if we can spot any Type Two tendencies.

Type Two Trait	Example from Jesus’ Life
Generous and giving	Jesus fed the 5,000 with just a few loaves of bread and some fish (Matthew 14:13-21).
Empathetic and understanding	Jesus wept with Mary and Martha when their brother Lazarus died (John 11:32-35).

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16, KJV)

It’s clear that Jesus embodied many Type Two traits, but He didn’t let them control Him.

Instead, He used them to serve others and point people to God.

We can learn from Jesus’ example and strive to be more like Him in our own lives.

Jesus as a Type Three

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Explanation of Type Three Characteristics

So, what does it mean to be a Type Three?

In the Enneagram, Type Threes are known as the Achievers. They’re driven, goal-oriented, and love to succeed.

Here are some key characteristics of Type Threes:

• Driven to succeed: Type Threes are always striving to achieve more. They set high standards for themselves and work hard to meet them.
• Image-conscious: Type Threes care about how others see them. They want to be respected and admired.
• Adaptable: Type Threes are flexible and able to adjust to new situations. They’re natural problem-solvers.

Evidence of Jesus Embodying Type Three Traits

Now, let’s look at Jesus’ life and see if we can spot any Type Three tendencies.

Type Three Trait	Evidence in Jesus’ Life
Driven to succeed	Jesus was on a mission to fulfill God’s plan, and He was determined to see it through. (John 4:34, KJV)
Image-conscious	Jesus was aware of how others perceived Him, but He didn’t let it dictate His actions. (Matthew 16:13-16, KJV)

Some might say, “But wait, Jesus was all about humility and serving others. How can He be a Type Three?”

That’s a great point! Jesus did embody humility and a servant’s heart. However, as a Type Three, He was also driven to achieve God’s plan and adaptable in His approach.

“For I have come down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me.” (John 6:38, KJV)

It’s not about being a “Type Three” in the classical sense; it’s about seeing how Jesus’ personality and actions can inspire us to live out our faith in practical ways.

Jesus as a Type Four

Explanation of Type Four Characteristics

Let’s dive into what it means to be a Type Four, also known as the Individualist or Romantic.

Type Fours are known for being intense, passionate, and idealistic.

They’re like the artists of the Enneagram world, always seeking authenticity and meaning in life.

Here are some key characteristics of Type Fours:

• Value authenticity: Type Fours crave genuine experiences and relationships.
• Seek intensity: They’re drawn to intense emotions, conversations, and experiences.
• Wear their heart on their sleeve: Type Fours are known for being emotional and expressive.
• Are natural problem-solvers: They’re great at analyzing complex issues and finding creative solutions.

Evidence of Jesus Embodying Type Four Traits

Now, let’s explore how Jesus embodied some of these Type Four traits.

Did Jesus have a heart for authenticity?

In John 4:23-24, Jesus says, “But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.”

Jesus valued authenticity in worship and relationships. He sought genuine connections with people, like the woman at the well.

Was Jesus intense and passionate?

When Jesus cleansed the temple (Matthew 21:12-13), he showed his intense passion for God’s house and desire for authentic worship.

Did Jesus wear his heart on his sleeve?

Jesus was known for his emotional expressions, like when he wept over Lazarus’ death (John 11:35) or felt compassion for the crowds (Matthew 9:36).

Type Four Trait	Jesus’ Example
Values authenticity	Seeks genuine worship and relationships
Seeks intensity	Demonstrates passion for God’s house and justice
Wears his heart on his sleeve	Expresses emotions like compassion and sorrow

In His Own Words

Jesus says, “My Father worketh hitherto, and I work.” (John 5:17, KJV)

In this verse, Jesus shows his dedication to his work and his connection to his Father.

He’s a true Type Four, passionate about his mission and authentic in his relationships.

Jesus as a Type Five

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Explanation of Type Five Characteristics

Let’s dive into what it means to be a Type Five.

According to the Enneagram, Type Fives are known for being independent, analytical, and ** reserved**.

They’re like the ultimate observers, always taking in information and trying to make sense of the world around them.

Here are some key characteristics of Type Fives:

• Insatiable curiosity: They love to learn and figure out how things work.
• Independence: They value their alone time and can come across as aloof or detached.
• Strategic thinking: They’re always thinking several steps ahead and trying to anticipate what might happen next.

Evidence of Jesus Embodying Type Five Traits

So, how does Jesus fit into this Type Five mold?

Let’s look at some examples from the Bible:

• Jesus’ prayer life: In Luke 5:16, it says, “And he withdrew himself into the wilderness, and prayed.” Jesus often took time to be alone and pray, which is a classic Type Five move.
• Jesus’ strategic thinking: In John 11:7-10, Jesus deliberately delays going to see Lazarus, even though his friends are counting on him. This shows that Jesus was thinking strategically about the bigger picture.
• Jesus’ love of teaching: Jesus was always teaching and explaining things to his disciples, which shows his analytical side. He wanted to help them understand the deeper meaning behind his words and actions.

Type Five Trait	Example from Jesus’ Life
Independence	Jesus often withdrew to pray and be alone.
Strategic thinking	Jesus delayed going to see Lazarus to achieve a greater purpose.

It’s fascinating to see how Jesus embodied these Type Five traits, isn’t it?

Jesus as a Type Six

Explanation of Type Six Characteristics

So, what’s a Type Six, anyway?

In the Enneagram, Type Sixes are known for being loyal and committed. They value security and stability, and they’re always on the lookout for potential dangers.

Here are some key characteristics of Type Sixes:

• Pragmatic: Type Sixes are down-to-earth and practical. They like to get things done.
• Anxious: Type Sixes can be worriers. They’re always thinking about what could go wrong.
• Loyal: Type Sixes are committed to the people and causes they care about. They’ll stick by you through thick and thin.

Evidence of Jesus Embodying Type Six Traits

So, how does Jesus fit into this?

Well, let’s take a look at some examples from the Bible:

• Jesus was a pragmatist: He didn’t just sit around talking about spiritual stuff – He got out there and did something about it. He healed people, fed the hungry, and taught about God’s love.
• Jesus was anxious about His mission: In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus was clearly anxious about what was ahead. He prayed to God, asking if there was another way, but ultimately submitted to God’s plan.
• Jesus was loyal to His Father: Jesus’ whole mission was about doing God’s will. He was committed to His Father’s plan, even when it meant sacrificing Himself.

Type Six Trait	Example from Jesus’ Life
Pragmatic	Jesus healed the blind and fed the hungry. He didn’t just talk about helping people – He did it.
Anxious	Jesus prayed in the Garden of Gethsemane, showing His anxiety about what was ahead.

“For I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me.” (John 6:38, KJV)

It’s interesting to think about Jesus as a Type Six, isn’t it?

Jesus as a Type Seven

Explanation of Type Seven Characteristics

Let’s dive into the world of Enneagram types. A Type Seven is often referred to as the “Enthusiast” or “Adventure-Seeker.” They’re known for being spontaneous, optimistic, and love trying new things.

Type Seven Traits	Description
Spontaneous	Type Sevens are known for being flexible and open to new experiences.
Optimistic	They have a “glass half full” approach to life, always looking for the best in people and situations.

Evidence of Jesus Embodying Type Seven Traits

Now, let’s look at Jesus’ life and see if we can spot any Type Seven tendencies.

• Spontaneous teaching style: Jesus often taught in unexpected ways, using everyday objects and situations to illustrate spiritual truths. For example, when He used a mustard seed to describe the kingdom of God (Matthew 13:31-32, KJV).
• Optimistic about people: Jesus saw the best in people, even when they didn’t deserve it. Remember the woman caught in adultery? Jesus didn’t condemn her; instead, He offered her a second chance (John 8:1-11, KJV).
• Seeking variety in ministry: Jesus’ ministry was far from routine. He traveled to different towns, met with various people, and performed miracles in unique ways. He even walked on water to get to the other side of the lake (Matthew 14:22-33, KJV)!

“The sabbath was made for man, and not man for the sabbath.” (Mark 2:27, KJV)

As the quote above shows, Jesus was all about flexibility and living life to the fullest.

It’s fascinating to see how Jesus’ life reflects some of the key characteristics of a Type Seven.

What do you think? Can you see Jesus as a Type Seven?

Frequently Asked Questions About Theoretically, What Was Jesus Enneagram

What is the Enneagram and How is it Used in Psychology?

The Enneagram is a personality typing system that describes patterns of thought, feeling, and behavior. In psychology, it’s used to help individuals understand their motivations, strengths, and weaknesses. It categorizes individuals into nine types, each with distinct traits and coping mechanisms. This self-awareness tool can aid in personal growth, relationships, and career development.

What Are the Different Types of Enneagrams and How Do They Relate to Personality?

The Enneagram system consists of 9 core personality types, each with unique motivations, fears, and desires. The types are: Reformer, Helper, Achiever, Individualist, Investigator, Loyalist, Enthusiast, Challenger, and Peacemaker. Each type has distinct strengths, weaknesses, and personality traits, influencing how individuals perceive and interact with the world around them.

How Has the Enneagram Been Used in Religious and Spiritual Practices Throughout History?

The Enneagram has roots in Christian mysticism, but its use spans across various religious and spiritual traditions. Early Christian Desert Fathers and Mothers used it to identify personality types and spiritual growth areas. Sufism and Buddhism also employed similar typologies for self-awareness and spiritual development. In modern times, the Enneagram has been adapted by various faiths and spiritual movements to foster personal growth, spiritual direction, and community building.

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