Jesus' Enneagram Type

Jesus is an Enneagram 1

Let’s start by looking at Jesus as an Enneagram 1, also known as The Perfectionist or The Reformer. A close study of Jesus’ teachings and lifestyle exhibits key traits that align strongly with a healthy Enneagram 1. We see this in Jesus’ deep emphasis on moral righteousness, his strong sense of justice, and his commitment to a higher standard which he calls us to emulate.

1. Jesus Emphasized Moral Righteousness

Type 1s are often viewed as the moral compass of the personality spectrum. They typically have an inherent sense of right and wrong, a deep desire to align themselves with virtue, and a desire to improve the world. They carry within them an inherent understanding of how things ought to be.

Just look at Jesus. Throughout the Gospels, Jesus consistently emphasized the importance of moral righteousness. In Matthew 5:20, he says, "For I tell you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the law, you will certainly not enter the kingdom of heaven." Jesus didn't merely preach about righteousness—he lived it, constantly encouraging his followers to seek a higher moral path, to live a life of integrity, just like a classic Enneagram 1.

Looking at that same passage in Matthew 5:20, it’s important to note that Jesus wasn’t saying that we needed to live like Pharisees. On the contrary, Jesus typically railed against the Pharisees’ version of righteousness. Instead, Jesus is redefining our sense of righteousness to more closely align it with his own.

We see this later in Matthew (chapter 23) when Jesus calls out the Pharisees for giving a tenth of their income but withholding mercy on those around them. While it’s important to give our tithes, it’s more important to show love and mercy to the people around us.

2. Jesus Had a Strong Sense of Justice

Another unmistakable attribute of the Enneagram 1 personality is a robust sense of justice. They long for a world where fairness prevails, and they often feel compelled to fight for causes that promote equality and correct thinking and behavior. The same strong sense of justice was clearly evident in Jesus' life and teachings.

In Matthew 21:12-13, Jesus drives out the money changers, saying, "My house will be called a house of prayer, but you are making it a 'den of robbers.’" This action shows Jesus' deep commitment to justice—he was ready to challenge the status quo when he saw the injustice taking place in the Temple.

The true issue wasn’t only people selling stuff in the Temple, but rather, it was how the money changers took advantage of foreigners and the poor. When people came from out of town, they had to change their money to the currency of the temple. Each time this “service” was provided, the foreigner would be charged a percentage of their changed money as a fee. This led to many foreigners being taken advantage of.

In addition to that, the people selling in the temple were taking advantage of the poor by selling doves. Doves were used as a budget-friendly way to offer sacrifices, but would often be sold for profit rather than as a convenience to the poor.

Jesus also taught about the equal value of all people, often associating with societal outcasts and advocating for those marginalized by the existing social norms. He stood up for the weak, the poor, and the sinners, echoing the Enneagram 1's pursuit of justice.

3. Jesus Lived to a Higher Standard and Calls Us to Do the Same

The third trait we're exploring is the Enneagram 1’s tendency to live according to a higher standard. This isn't about perfectionism in the common sense—it's about an internal drive to improve, to be better, and to encourage others to do the same.

Jesus embodied this trait. He lived a life of perfection, showing us the standard that we, as humans, can strive for. In Matthew 5:48, he says, "Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect." Here, Jesus was challenging his followers to live to the highest standard of love, forgiveness, and righteousness—reflecting God's nature in their own lives.

This high standard wasn't about unreachable perfection, but rather about growing in character and virtue. In his life and teaching, Jesus demonstrated the transformative power of love, forgiveness, and self-sacrifice, setting a standard that his followers are invited to strive for.

It’s clear Jesus embodies many characteristics of the Type 1 personality: The Reformer. From his emphasis on moral righteousness, to his unshakeable sense of justice, and his commitment to a higher standard of living, these attributes shine through in his life and teachings. As followers of Christ, recognizing these aspects of his character can inspire us to cultivate these qualities within ourselves. That's the power of the Enneagram—it's not just a personality tool, but a mirror for self-reflection and spiritual growth. Whether you identify as a Type 1 or any other Enneagram type, Jesus’ life offers a model of character to aspire to, inspiring us all to grow towards love, justice, and righteousness.

Jesus is an Enneagram 2

Now let’s look at Jesus through the lens of an Enneagram 2, the Helper. When you look at the traits of the Enneagram 2, it's hard not to see a reflection of Jesus, and in this section we’ll break down a few key traits that Jesus embodied that resembles an Enneagram 2. The characteristics of an Enneagram 2 that we’ll be exploring are that Jesus was empathetic and compassionate, he was a servant, and he was self-sacrificing.

1. Jesus Was Empathetic and Compassionate

Let's start with empathy and compassion, which are hallmark strengths of the Enneagram 2. When you read the New Testament, Jesus' deep empathy and compassion for humanity practically leap off the pages.

If you’re familiar with the New Testament, you’re likely familiar with Jesus meeting the woman at the well in John 4. Here was a woman shunned by her community, having lived a difficult life. We know she was shunned because John makes it a point to mention that it was the middle of the day when this happened. This wasn’t during the normal time when people went to fetch water, which would’ve been the cooler parts of the day like morning or the later part of the day. Instead, the woman felt she had to go out when no one from her community would be there. It doesn’t take much of a leap to assume that she was avoiding the people in her community.

Jesus didn't shun her, but rather he engaged with her. He saw her. He understood her thirst, not just for water but for acceptance and love. This empathetic connection is pure Enneagram 2.

Similarly, Jesus shows this empathy and compassion in the recounting of his feeding of the 5,000 (Mark 6:30-44). After Jesus taught the people for a long time, he saw that the people were hungry. He could have dismissed them. But did he? Absolutely not! Moved by compassion, he miraculously fed them all. This wasn't about showing off his divine powers; it was about meeting needs, a deeply empathetic act.

2. Jesus Was a Servant

Another key attribute of an Enneagram 2 is that they have the heart of a servant, and Jesus exemplifies this trait. He said it himself in Mark 10:45, "For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve..." This is one trait that couldn’t be made any clearer by Jesus himself.

Consider the Last Supper in John 13:1-17. Here's Jesus, the Master, the Teacher, on his knees washing his disciples' feet. It was a job typically reserved for the lowest servant. But he did it willingly, to teach a lesson of humility and service. Jesus, the greatest in the room, takes on the role of who would be considered the lowest in the room in order to show the disciples how they were to serve. Instead of seeking power or status or position, Jesus tells his disciples to serve those around them. That’s what it means to be great.

There are countless stories throughout Jesus’ entire ministry that show this kind of servant’s heart. He healed the sick, raised the dead, taught the confused and lost - every bit of it was about serving others, about fulfilling their needs above his own.

3. Jesus Was Self-Sacrificing

Finally, the self-sacrificing nature of Enneagram 2s is perhaps the most profound way Jesus fits this type. Nothing underscores this more than his crucifixion.

The ultimate act of self-sacrifice, Jesus willingly laid down his life for the sins of humanity. John 15:13 states, "Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one's life for one's friends." There's no clearer picture of self-sacrifice than this. The way Jesus demonstrated his love for us was to sacrifice himself in the most painful and humiliating way possible in that culture.

But it wasn't just in his death; it was in his life too. He sacrificed his privacy, his comfort, and even his reputation, all for the sake of others. Every act, every miracle, every teaching was not for his own glory but for the benefit of humanity and to the glory of the Father.

So, yes, Jesus embodies an Enneagram 2 rather well. He’s empathetic and compassionate. He’s a servant. Jesus is self-sacrificing. His example is a great place to start for Enneagram 2s, but beyond that, we all can learn how to be better followers of Jesus by exemplifying his Enneagram 2 traits in our everyday lives.

Jesus is an Enneagram 3

Next up is looking at Jesus as an Enneagram 3. Enneagram 3 is known as “The Achiever” and is usually characterized by someone who is charismatic, driven, and competent. Jesus certainly fits the bill for healthy expressions of these key traits of the Enneagram 3, so let’s use this section to explore how Jesus showed up as an Enneagram 3.

1. Jesus was Charismatic

Some of the first things that come to mind when thinking about an Enneagram 3 is typically charisma, likability, and an innate ability to influence others - all traits Jesus abundantly displayed. His charisma was the glue that gathered crowds, making people stop their day-to-day tasks to listen to his teachings.

Remember the sermon on the mount? Jesus didn't have a microphone or a massive advertising campaign. He didn't need them. His charismatic presence was enough to draw the multitudes to him. And when he spoke, people listened. He conveyed messages with such grace and allure that they resonated powerfully with his followers, transforming their lives forever.

In the same vein, Jesus' charisma shone through in his one-on-one interactions. His encounter with Zacchaeus, the tax collector, led to an immediate change of heart in the latter. Such was his magnetic charisma, it compelled people to change their ways and follow a path of righteousness.

The key that I want to bring out here is that he wasn’t a magnetic personality that manipulated people. Rather, he used his charisma to call people to him and change their lives in a positive way. Zacchaeus was not guilted or compelled to give back everything he had stolen from the people in his community. No, he was overwhelmed by Jesus’ love for him that the only logical next step was to change his life completely.

2. Jesus was Driven

Being driven is another hallmark of the Enneagram 3 personality. Jesus was no exception to this, but not in a way that we would typically think of being driven. His mission? To teach, to heal, and ultimately to provide a path to salvation for humanity. Jesus wasn't just a dreamer; he was a doer. Even knowing the great personal cost it would entail, Jesus steadfastly remained focused on his mission.

Consider Jesus’ journey to Jerusalem in the days before his crucifixion. Despite knowing what awaited him there, Jesus pressed on with unwavering determination, propelled by a vision greater than himself. This instance captures the very essence of an Enneagram Type 3's driven nature, pushing through adversity to reach a predetermined goal.

From the beginning of Jesus’ recorded life, we see that he was compelled to spend time with the Father and to usher in the Kingdom of God. These were his goals, and he would not stop pursuing them until he ultimately reached them by his crucifixion and subsequent resurrection.

3. Jesus was Competent

Competence is a defining feature of an Enneagram Type 3, and Jesus was a master of competence in his endeavors. This was evident in many ways. For instance, his understanding of Scriptures and his ability to explain complex spiritual concepts with simplicity amazed even the scholars of his time. He’s still amazing scholars to this day.

Jesus' competence wasn't limited to spiritual teachings alone. His miracles – turning water into wine, healing the sick, feeding the thousands – all reflect an extraordinary competence. People came to him with a vast array of problems, and he consistently demonstrated the ability to meet those challenges head-on.

Even in interpersonal relationships, Jesus showed exceptional competence. Whether it was navigating difficult conversations, building a dedicated group of followers, or reaching out to marginalized individuals in society, he exemplified a mastery of emotional intelligence and social skills.

One of my favorite passages that I see about Jesus’ competence is when it’s written about him in Mark 7 that he did everything well. Jesus, the savior of the world and God’s son, made time to get good at the things that mattered. He was not a bad teacher or a poor public speaker. No, he was an amazing teacher and a captivating speaker. He was good at what he did, and I think we can all learn from that example and work to be good at what we do, no matter what it is.

Looking at Jesus' life through the lens of an Enneagram Type 3 offers a fresh perspective that can enhance our understanding of his character and mission. By contemplating Jesus as an Enneagram 3, we’re given another reminder of his charismatic, driven, and competent nature, encouraging us to appreciate these qualities in ourselves and others, and - perhaps - use it as inspiration to improve our own lives and those around us.

Jesus is an Enneagram 4

Now let’s explore Jesus as if he might have been an Enneagram Type 4, also known as "The Individualist." Enneagram 4s are typically known for the masterful ability to tell stories, their inherent strength of being in-tune with their own emotions, and their individualism. Jesus embodied each of these strengths of Enneagram 4s, and there’s something for all of us to learn from in this next section.

1. Jesus was a master storyteller

Let's start with Jesus's reputation as a storyteller. Enneagram 4s are known for their depth of feeling and their ability to express those feelings in creative and unique ways. They're often drawn to the arts and storytelling, as these platforms allow them to express their emotions and experiences in a tangible way. Jesus, too, had this effortless inclination for storytelling.

Jesus's parables are a perfect example of this. Take the parable of the Good Samaritan or the Prodigal Son. These aren't just simple tales. They are rich, nuanced stories designed to elicit emotional responses and teach profound lessons about love, forgiveness, and mercy. They paint vivid pictures of people and places, resonating with the listener on a deep emotional level. This deep connection with emotion and storytelling is a hallmark of Enneagram 4s.

Beyond this, Jesus’ stories took highly complicated theological concepts and reduced them to an easy to remember and record story that changed the lives, minds, and hearts of those around him. The Good Samaritan wasn’t just a feel-good story encouraging us to be better people. It was also a story that crossed racial boundaries and flew in the face of damaging bias in that day of Jewish people versus Samaritan people.

Likewise, the Prodigal Son wasn’t just a sentimental story of a father and son being united. It was also a story that challenged the family dynamic as well as how and for what we should forgive. These stories are rife with meaning that we’re still exploring nearly 2,000 years later.

2. Jesus was in-tune with his own emotions

Emotional intelligence is another characteristic common to Enneagram 4s, and Jesus displayed this trait abundantly. Whether he was expressing compassion to the marginalized, or displaying righteous anger in the temple, Jesus wasn't afraid to show his emotions. He felt deeply and expressed those feelings openly.

One of the most poignant examples of Jesus's emotional depth is found in John 11:35: "Jesus wept." This short verse in the Bible speaks volumes about Jesus's capacity for emotional depth. He was mourning the death of his friend Lazarus, and he wasn't afraid to show his sorrow openly. This willingness to not only feel, but also display deep emotions, is something that aligns closely with the nature of an Enneagram 4.

3. Jesus was individualistic

Finally, let's look at the trait of individualism. 4s are known for their desire to be unique, to be different from the crowd. They're not afraid to go against the grain, to challenge norms, and to stand out. Sound familiar?

Jesus was anything but conventional. He spent time with tax collectors and sinners, people who were shunned by polite society. He challenged the religious leaders of his time, pushing back against their legalism, hypocrisy, and unnecessary burdens that they laid on the already weary people of Israel. Jesus presented a new way of thinking, a radical reinterpretation of the law and the prophets (the Old Testament), which shook the very foundations of the society in which he lived.

But here's the key: Jesus didn't do these things just to be different. He did them because he believed they were right, because he was driven by a deep inner conviction. This is a crucial aspect of the Enneagram 4 - they don't seek to be different for difference's sake. They are true to their authentic selves, regardless of societal expectations.

In Jesus, as in Enneagram Type 4s, we see the qualities of the master storyteller, the emotionally attuned, and the fearless individualist. He broke down complex theories into practical applications, felt strong emotions and helped people with their own, and maintained his unique identity in the face of strong societal pressures. We all, not just Enneagram 4s, can learn how to be better humans by reflecting on how Jesus exemplified the perfect Enneagram 4.

Jesus is an Enneagram 5

Next let’s explore the idea that Jesus may have been an Enneagram Type 5, also known as “The Investigator.” Enneagram Type 5s are known for their independence, perceptiveness, and intelligence, characteristics that many would attribute to Jesus as depicted in the New Testament. Let's take a look at each of these three attributes and see how they might align with what we know about Jesus from biblical narratives.

1. Jesus was Independent

Jesus certainly displayed a strong sense of independence throughout his life. He wasn't one to follow the crowd or bow to societal pressures. From a young age, he displayed an autonomous spirit, such as when he stayed behind in the Temple in Jerusalem to discuss scripture with the elders, while his parents started their journey home, believing he was with them. This episode showed his ability to stand alone, to follow his own path and his own calling, despite expectations from others.

Later in life, Jesus would often retreat to quiet places to pray and recharge, showing his need for solitude and personal space, another strong characteristic of Type 5s. He chose his own path, one that was not always easy or accepted, but which he knew was right for him.

2. Jesus was Perceptive

Jesus was also extremely perceptive, showing an in-depth understanding of people, their motives, and their needs. Time and again, he demonstrated an ability to see beyond the surface level and perceive the truth of a situation.

One perfect example of his perceptiveness is when he encountered the woman at the well in the gospel of John, which we discussed earlier in this article. Jesus quickly perceived her life situation, her struggles, and her needs, despite only having just met her. He was able to engage with her on a deep level, thanks to his insightful understanding. Using the insights gained from his ability to perceive beyond the surface, he was able to show compassion and meet the woman where she was emotionally.

Jesus also recognized the broader societal and religious dynamics at play during his time, challenging the religious leaders and authorities with wisdom and perception. This echoes the investigator side of Type 5, always seeking deeper, hidden truths.

3. Jesus was Intelligent

Lastly, Jesus' intelligence is not something anyone can easily argue against. His teachings, parables, and discourse with both the common people and the educated leaders of his time showed a profound intellect.

From his childhood days impressing temple elders with his understanding, to his adult years teaching vast crowds and debating with scholars, Jesus exhibited a deep understanding of complex spiritual and moral issues. His ability to articulate profound truths in simple and relatable ways showcased his extraordinary intellect.

His intelligence wasn't just about knowledge; it was also about wisdom. He displayed a deep understanding of human nature, the cosmos, and the divine. His teachings have stood the test of time and continue to be widely studied and respected today.

These qualities – independence, perceptiveness, and intelligence – are ones that many of us can admire and strive to embody in our own lives. Jesus, the perfect example of what it means to be human, gives us a picture of what it means to be an Enneagram 5. This picture is not just for Enneagram 5’s to copy, though. Each of us can learn how to be more like Jesus by practicing independence, perceptiveness, and intelligence.

Jesus is an Enneagram 6

Enneagram Type 6 is also known as "The Loyalist" and is characterized by their faithfulness, questioning nature, and capacity for vision. All of these are traits that align surprisingly well with Jesus' life and teachings. Let's explore this idea in this next section.

1. Jesus was Faithful

One defining characteristic of the Enneagram 6 is faithfulness - a trait that Jesus embodied in countless ways. From his dedication to spreading the message of God's love to his obedience in accepting his fate on the cross, Jesus's unwavering faithfulness is unquestionable.

Think about his devotion to his followers. Even in moments of doubt or trepidation, Jesus remained true to his purpose and his disciples. And remember his faithfulness to do what the Father had called him to do? Even as he prayed in the Garden of Gethsemane, amidst the fear and anticipation of what was to come, he faithfully worked through that fear and did what he was sent to earth to do. His prayer, "Not my will, but yours be done," is a powerful testament to his faithfulness. In essence, Jesus demonstrated the steadfast reliability and trustworthiness that are hallmarks of the Enneagram 6.

Beyond his faithfulness then, we can know now that Jesus is still faithful today. Faithfulness is in his nature and it’s something that we all can aspire to, no matter what our Enneagram number is.

2. Jesus was Questioning

Jesus, while all-knowing, asked many questions. While Jesus, as the Son of God, had divine knowledge, he still made a point to question, to provoke thought, and to invite others into deeper understanding. Jesus did not ask questions because he didn’t know the answer - he did. He asked questions primarily as a way to teach a crowd or to change a mind.

As an Enneagram 6, questioning serves to navigate uncertainties, gain clarity, and maintain vigilance. Jesus often questioned the religious leaders of his time, challenging their rigid interpretations of the law and their neglect of mercy and justice. Think about his conversations in the Temple, or the moment when he questioned the Pharisees about the lawfulness of healing on the Sabbath.

Jesus primarily used questions as a teaching method with his disciples, helping them explore their understanding of faith, love, and God's Kingdom. This is why he asks the disciples in Matthew 16:16, "Who do you say that I am?" It was a moment of deep questioning that led to a profound confession of faith. Jesus was not showing an uncertainty about who he is, nor did he really care about what the streets were saying about him. He was simply asking the disciples to put language behind what they thought about Jesus.

3. Jesus was a Visionary

Finally, Enneagram 6s are visionaries. Not in the sense of creating grand, unattainable dreams, but in envisioning a more secure, loving, and just world. Jesus was undoubtedly a visionary in the grand sense, but he was also a visionary in this sense.

Throughout his ministry, Jesus shared a revolutionary vision of a Kingdom characterized by love, forgiveness, and radical inclusivity. He saw a world where the last would be first, where the meek would inherit the earth, and where love for one's neighbor was paramount and second in sequence (not importance) only to loving God. Jesus envisioned a world far removed from the societal norms of his time - and he invited others to share in this vision and work towards its realization.

From the parables of the Prodigal Son and the Good Samaritan to the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus provided glimpses of this vision, challenging existing structures and sowing seeds of hope for a better world. This characteristic firmly aligns him with the visionary aspect of the Enneagram 6.

We can see through the lens of the Enneagram, Jesus exemplified Enneagram 6 qualities in faithfulness, a questioning nature, and visionary thinking - traits that permeate deeply throughout his life, ministry, and teachings. No matter what your Enneagram Type is, each attribute mentioned is worth emulating in our lives.

Jesus is an Enneagram 7

Enneagram 7s are often referred to as “The Enthusiast,” and they are typically associated with being the life of the party, resilience, and optimism. Looking closely at examples throughout the New Testament, as well as reflecting on Jesus’ character, shows us that Jesus fits these attributes fairly well. In this section, we’ll discuss how Jesus exemplifies the perfect example of what it means to be an Enneagram 7.

1. Jesus Was the Life of the Party

Traditionally, Type 7s are perceived as extroverted, spontaneous, and versatile. They're the ones who bring the vibe to any gathering, and Jesus absolutely fits that description.

The most obvious example of Jesus being the life of the party is his first miracle, which occurred at the wedding at Cana in the book of John. The hosts ran out of wine, but Jesus wouldn’t let the party stop. He didn’t go out and buy some more wine for the hosts and guests to drink, either. Instead, he pulled out all the stops and turned water into wine, and not just any wine, but the best wine of the day. The party went on, thanks to our high-spirited protagonist.

People wanted to be wherever Jesus was. He often sat down for meals with tax collectors and sinners (Matthew 9:10-11). This always caused a stir among the religious leaders of the day. Yet, it's clear that Jesus wasn't one to shy away from a lively gathering, embracing all sorts of folks, demonstrating his sociable and inclusive nature.

Don’t get me wrong. Jesus wasn’t a partier just for the party’s sake. Yes, people wanted to be wherever Jesus was and they wanted to celebrate life with him. At the end of the day, however, lives were always changed when people spent time with Jesus. We mentioned Zaccheaus earlier in this article, and he’s a good example of this as well. Jesus wanted to eat and drink with Zaccheaus, and afterward, Zaccheaus was changed forever. This is what it means to party with Jesus.

2. Jesus was Resilient

Another trait that is core to the Enneagram 7 is resilience. Enthusiasts are not easily discouraged; they have a zest for life and the capacity to rebound from hardships and setbacks. When we look at the life of Jesus, we see this resilience embodied in his actions, ministry, and teachings.

Consider Jesus' journey itself - from his birth in a manger to his crucifixion. Throughout his life, he faced immense hardships, false accusations, betrayal, and finally a torturous death. Yet, he never swayed from his mission or lost sight of his purpose. His ability to rebound and persevere, even in the face of such trials, demonstrates a level of resilience that is truly characteristic of a Type 7.

Death never discouraged Jesus; instead, he raised Lazarus from the dead. Impossible circumstances never fazed Jesus; instead, he fed thousands. Blindness, deafness, and sickness never kept Jesus down; instead, he gave sight to the blind, hearing to the deaf, and health to the sick.

Even when his cousin, John the Baptist, was wrongfully executed, Jesus continued in his ministry. Yes, he attempted to take some time to recover and grieve by spending time alone in the wilderness, but when he got there, he had compassion on the people and served their needs just as he was called to do. In fact, it was after John was beheaded that Jesus performed his miracle of feeding thousands of people.

Furthermore, Jesus consistently encouraged resilience in his disciples and followers. In John 16:33, he said, "In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." This promise, this assurance of victory over adversity, mirrors the Enneagram 7's buoyant spirit and unwavering resilience.

3. Jesus was Optimistic

The last attribute of Enneagram 7 we’ll explore is their optimism. They're the individuals who see the glass not just as half full, but overflowing. They have a profound ability to look forward to the future with positivity, hope, and a sense of adventure.

Jesus’ teachings were infused with this kind of forward-looking optimism. One of the best examples of this can be found in the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7). Jesus spoke of the Kingdom of Heaven, a future of peace, justice, and love, encouraging his followers to seek and live according to this vision. This optimistic outlook, this hope for a better world, aligns seamlessly with the Enneagram 7's propensity for positive anticipation. It’s doubtful that his audience had this same hope for the future after many years under the oppression of Rome and previously Greece, but Jesus began to restore hope in the lives of those who were hopeless.

Jesus' resurrection is the ultimate symbol of optimism, offering hope for a new life and defeating the darkness of death. His enduring message is one of love, hope, and redemption—echoing the boundless optimism of an Enneagram 7.

The way Jesus lived, his resilience in the face of adversity, and his optimism in the promise of a brighter future, all parallel the characteristics often associated with the Enneagram 7. Reviewing these traits and incorporating them in our lives will benefit each of us, not just Enthusiasts.

Jesus is an Enneagram 8

Enneagram 8s are known as Challengers. They are typically protective of their close friends and those who can’t defend themselves, honest, and challengers of societal norms. Jesus, though a perfect example of all of the Enneagram types, shows strong affinity to these particular attributes. Let’s explore how Jesus exemplifies the Enneagram 8 in this next section.

1. Jesus Was Protective

One of the give-away signs of an Enneagram 8 is their protective nature, and Jesus fits this profile in many ways. Think about the numerous stories from the Bible where Jesus defends and protects the vulnerable. He stood up for the woman accused of adultery in John 8:1-11, shielding her from a mob ready to stone her. He also showed care and concern for children, insisting that they should be allowed to come to him despite the societal norms of his time that often dismissed their importance (Matthew 19:14).

Jesus' teachings often emphasized protection of the poor and the meek. His message was inclusive, bringing a sense of belonging and security to those who were marginalized or oppressed. This sort of protective nature is a strong indicator of an Enneagram 8's desire to safeguard those who are defenseless, demonstrating Jesus' alignment with this type.

Jesus wasn’t only a protector of the marginalized. He was also a firm protector of his disciples. When the authorities come with Judas to arrest Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane in John 18, Jesus asks the prosecutors who they seek. To this they reply they’re seeking Jesus of Nazareth. After Jesus admits his identity, he requests that the authorities let the rest of his disciples go without penalty. Even as Jesus is being arrested and escorted away, he was protecting those who were close to him.

2. Jesus Was Honest

Enneagram 8s are known for their blunt honesty - it’s one reason they’re called Challengers. They value truth and despise dishonesty and deception. This aligns with many instances in Jesus' life as portrayed in the Gospels. Jesus was not afraid to speak the truth, even when it was uncomfortable or confronting.

Take, for example, Jesus' conversation with the Samaritan woman at the well (John 4:1-26), who I wrote about earlier in this article. Rather than sidestepping difficult topics, Jesus openly discusses the woman's past, ultimately leading to a moment of revelation for her. Jesus' truth-telling also extended to his teachings, where he didn't shy away from delivering harsh realities or challenging his followers' understanding of righteousness.

In the next section about Jesus as an Enneagram 9, I bring up the story mentioned earlier in John 8:1-11. As an Enneagram 9, we see Jesus’ grace with the woman caught in adultery when he says he doesn’t condemn the woman. However, we know Jesus is full of grace and truth. Jesus balances his Enneagram 8 side with his Enneagram 9 side nicely. He forgives the woman (as Type 9s do so effortlessly), but he then confronts her sin (as Type 8s do just as effortlessly) when he tells her to leave her life of sin. As I’ve heard many times before: Truth without grace is mean. Grace without truth is meaningless.

3. Jesus Challenged Societal Norms

Enneagram 8s are often seen as rebels or challengers, pushing against societal norms and questioning established systems. This is perhaps one of the most evident traits Jesus exhibited that align with an Enneagram 8.

Throughout his ministry, Jesus frequently broke societal rules and norms. He interacted with tax collectors and sinners (Luke 5:30), healed on the Sabbath (Luke 13:10-17), and flipped tables in the Temple (Matthew 21:12-13) in defiance of the corruption he saw there. These actions were significant breaches of the societal norms of his time, indicating a willingness to disrupt the status quo for the sake of justice and truth.

Jesus not only challenged societal norms but also religious norms. His interpretation of the law and the prophets often ran counter to the Pharisees and the scribes, the religious authorities of his time. His message was revolutionary, advocating a new way of understanding and living God's commandments.

Viewing Jesus as an Enneagram 8 helps us understand his protective nature, his unflinching honesty, and his willingness to challenge societal and religious norms. It also gives us a picture of what it means to be a healthy Enneagram Type 8. Mimicking these traits can be difficult for other types, but everyone can benefit from implementing Jesus’ example here to their lives.

Jesus is an Enneagram 9

In this next section, we’re going to look at Jesus as an Enneagram Type 9 - The Peacemaker. Enneagram 9s are typically known for their forgiving nature, desire to bring people together, and their ability to accept. Let’s explore how Jesus perfectly represents these three key character traits of Enneagram Type 9.

1. Jesus was Forgiving

When we think of Enneagram 9s, one characteristic that comes to mind is their forgiving nature. They often find it easy to accept others, overlook faults, and let go of past wrongs. This was one of the most prominent features of Jesus' character.

Remember the story of the woman caught in adultery we talked about in the section about Enneagram Type 8? She was brought before Jesus, and the mob was ready to stone her to death. But Jesus didn't condemn her. Instead, he said, "He who is without sin among you, let him be the first to throw a stone at her." The crowd dispersed, and Jesus, full of grace, forgave the woman.

The ultimate symbol of his forgiveness is his sacrifice on the cross. Even in the midst of excruciating pain and betrayal, Jesus uttered, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do." This forgiving nature is a key feature of Enneagram 9, and one that Jesus demonstrated time and again throughout his life.

2. Jesus Desired to Bring People Together

Another characteristic of Enneagram 9s is their desire for unity, peace, and harmony. They deeply desire to bring people together, to bridge differences, and to resolve conflict.

If we look at Jesus' life, we see this pattern over and over again. He reached out to people from all walks of life - the tax collectors, the sinners, the outcasts, the wealthy, and the poor. He broke down societal and religious barriers, creating a community where everyone was welcomed and loved.

Consider, again, the Sermon on the Mount, where he shared the Beatitudes, a radical message that brought together diverse crowds. His vision was a kingdom where all were invited, all were welcome, and all were loved. This longing for unity is a strong point for Jesus being an Enneagram 9.

3. Jesus was Accepting

Enneagram 9s are known for their accepting nature. They can see and understand multiple perspectives, making them incredibly accepting of others. This acceptance doesn't mean they agree with everyone, but they understand that each person has their own unique journey.

Jesus was no different. He didn't reject people because of their status, beliefs, or past mistakes. He saw the worth in everyone. Think back, again, about his interaction with Zacchaeus, the tax collector. Despite the man's reputation and lifestyle, Jesus accepted him, dined with him, and transformed his life.

Or consider how he treated his disciples, a group of men with a diverse range of backgrounds and personalities. He accepted them all - the doubting Thomas, the passionate Peter, even Judas, who would eventually betray him.

His accepting nature reflected a deep love and understanding for all humanity. This quality, again, makes a strong case for Jesus as an Enneagram 9.

Between Jesus’ forgiving nature, his desire to bring people together, and his accepting nature, we see a strong semblance of Jesus as an Enneagram 9. Whether you’re a Peacemaker or not, you can benefit by working on each of these traits Jesus exemplified as a Type 9.

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Ultimately, Jesus is not limited to any one Enneagram number, but rather, he is the fullness of all that is good and perfect, and he can be seen in all of the Enneagram types. It should also be noted that the Enneagram is simply a tool to help us understand ourselves better, but it is not a perfect means by which we can understand Jesus, an infinitely complex and unique person.