The Sacred Enneagram

Have you ever wondered why you are the way you are? Have you ever been so stressed out and busy that you just need a break, but when that break comes you still feel just as anxious?

In The Sacred Enneagram by Christopher L. Heuertz, he dives into the personality test called the enneagram, and how it is connected to our desires, how we perceive the world, and what we need the most in our walk with God. 

Some of you may be very confused, as you may not know what the enneagram is. Is it a personality test?  Yes, but really it’s more than that. The enneagram is a model of the human psyche, which is separated into the following nine interconnected personality types:

1. The Reformer
2. The Helper
3. The Achiever
4. The Individualist
5. The Investigator
6. The Loyalist
7. The Enthusiast
8. The Challenger
9. The Peacemaker

In The Sacred Enneagram, Heuertz starts off with a short history of the enneagram, explaining its origins and how he came to discover it. He then dives into the different categories of the enneagram, explaining how the nine types are organized into different intelligence centers (head, heart, and gut), and harmony triads (relationships, pragmatists, and idealists).

Next, Heuertz explains the types themselves. What each type of person desires, fears, and how they perceive the world around them. He offers in-depth descriptions of each type, with helpful charts and diagrams explaining all different aspects of the enneagram.

Finally, he explores how each type can further their relationship with God, specifically through contemplative practices. He splits up the types again, this time into what they need most in times of prayer (silence, solitude, and stillness). He describes different contemplative practices that are most beneficial for each type, and how they can implement them.

Personally, I loved this book. The insight Heuertz provides not only on the nine types but on how best we connect with God was incredibly helpful. All the insightful advice on the nine types and how they interact is applicable to everyone’s life. The book provides background and research from credible sources and is balanced with stories from Heuertz’s own life. Overall, I’d recommend this book for anyone interested in the enneagram, psychology, strengthening their relationships, different kinds of prayer, or learning more about themselves in general.