Customer Reviews

Experiencing the Enneagram

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If knowing why you do what you do or understanding how you see things the way you see them is important to you, this well-written, in-depth book on the ancient Sufi tradition of self-assessment is a must-have. One of the best parts of this book is the inclusion of an Enneagram Types test, located in the back of the book. It offers a 115-question test along with information on interpreting the results of the test in order to help the reader get a handle on which of the nine personality types most corresponds to their own personality. Those already aquatinted with their Enneagram Type will become more deeply aware of their own patterns, feelings, actions and authentic self as they explore the in-depth explanations presented by the authors. Those who are new to the Enneagram will be impressed with how easy to understand this complex personality tool is presented. An extra added bonus of this Christian-based book includes chapters on mapping a path for personal change, possibilities for use of the Enneagram in pastoral care, and in all relationships. My personal favorite is the chapter, "The Nine Faces of the Soul of Christ". It reflects the nine images of the Christ, and include qualities of being perfect, loveing, creative, beautiful, all-knowing, faithful, alive, almighty and reconciled.

Since I have heard so many great things about Richard Rohr, I was a bit disappointed with this text, which read more like a psychology text. Because the enneagram isn't a definitive tool (they're aren't many/any in psychology), it is a great deal of speculation. That is fine when based on more experience. I would have appreciated more stories about how the authors of the articles included herein have used and found useful the enneagram vs. more theories about it. Don't give up on Rohr's other stuff though.