Is Shadow Work Demonic? 15 Alarming Reasons to Consider

Hey friend! I’m humbled that you’re here on this post!🙏🏽

I have always been fascinated by the concept of personality typing and understanding oneself better. I’ve written about the enneagram and other topics over the years.

Over the past few months, I started receiving questions from my readers about Shadow Work, MBTI (Myers-Briggs Type Indicator), and Carl Jung. I became eager to dive deeper into this topic.

I discovered that many Christians:

• Worry that Shadow work may be rooted in New Age teachings
• Question the safety and potential dangers of shadow work.
• Wonder about the compatibility of Shadow work with Christian beliefs
• Fear that it falls under “heeding to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils as per 1 Timothy 4:1.”

However, Christians cannot pinpoint why they discern this to be so. This blog post will give you more detailed information to assist you.

P.S. I’m going to be chatty today. Grab a cup of tea or coffee and take the time to read, pause, and ponder.

Ready? Let’s go.

The Origin of Shadow Work

The term “Shadow work” originated from renowned psychologist Carl Jung, who introduced the concept of the “shadow self.”

According to Jung, our shadow self comprises all the repressed, denied, or hidden aspects of ourselves. These can include negative traits, desires, and emotions we are not proud of or want to acknowledge.

Shadow work, therefore, is the process of exploring and integrating these shadow aspects into our conscious selves. It involves facing our fears and traumas, addressing our insecurities, and embracing all parts of who we are.

The Dark Origins of Carl Jung’s Theories

Carl Jung’s theories on analytical psychology have influenced generations of thinkers and continue to be studied today. In graduate school, I was introduced to Jung’s work early on as it was part of our curriculum.

After further research and consideration, I’ve come to view Jung as being influenced more by spirituality and the occult rather than science and clinical research. While others may say that this does not discount the impact of his work, as a Christian, it raises questions about the sources of his ideas.

Why do I say this?

The book Jung on Synchronicity and the Paranormal talks of Carl Jung’s early life that led to his obsession with the paranormal and ghostly phenomena.

• Ghosts always surrounded his maternal grandfather (Samuel Preiswerk). He would also dedicate one day a week to speak to his dead wife.
• His maternal grandfather married another wife- Augusta, who was clairvoyant.
• In their family home, paranormal experiences were common.
• The house appeared haunted, and they would see apparitions.
• The activity in the house was so intense that the mom kept a diary documenting the strange occurrences.

An article I read from Princeton University discussed how Jung’s paranormal encounters, influences, and observations formed the theory of synchronicity.

Here is an excerpt, “Jung’s encounters with and observations of the paranormal, the influences that contributed to his theory of synchronicity, and the central ideas of the theory itself. The selections include Jung’s writings on mediumistic trance phenomena, spirits and hauntings, anomalous events in the development and practice of analytical psychology, and the divinatory techniques of astrology and the I Ching.”

Ok, that proves that his theories weren’t birthed from the usual rigorous evidence based clinical methods or clinical studies but rather from demonic intelligence. This is all spiritual.

I would also note that Jung also dabbled in occult practices such as seances and divinatory practices like astrology, tarot cards, mysticism, and I- Ching divination. These practices are all rooted in demonic influence and go against the teachings of Christianity.

Furthermore, Jung’s theories also promote the idea of self-discovery through embracing one’s shadow or darker side. This is absolutely contrary to Biblical views, as we are called to resist temptation and overcome our sinful nature rather than embrace it.

It is important to remember that just because someone is a well-respected figure in their field does not mean their ideas are rooted in truth. Christians must diligently discern the origins of ideas and teachings before accepting them as truth.

The Fine Line Between Self-Discovery and Manifestation or Possession

Shadow work poses questions that may seem strange or even uncomfortable to some of us as Christians, especially those aware of the demonic realm.

My findings: With the rise in the popularity of shadow work, there has been an influx of online resources and journals available. Depending on the author, they can omit certain things, but the journal aims to confront and integrate with your shadow.

Here are some strange steps to integrating one’s shadow that I found from reviewing lots of in-depth workbooks online:

• Identify your shadow: Reflect on your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors that you tend to suppress or ignore. These are likely your shadow aspects.
• Concentrate on its presence: Once you have identified your shadow, acknowledge its existence and how it manifests in your life.
• Form a bond with it: Instead of viewing your shadow as something to be feared or rejected, try forming an unbreakable bond with it. Acknowledge that it is a part of you and embrace it.
• Verbally affirm your connection: As you focus on your shadow, tell it, “You are always with me..” This will help solidify the connection between yourself and your shadow.
• Embrace physical connection: To strengthen this bond further, imagine physically connecting with your shadow. This could be through touching an object or simply feeling the presence of your shadow in the room with you.

My question is, are you really interacting with your unconscious self or a demonic spirit?🤔 Given the fact that the originator of the shadow self was an occultist.

Here’s a quote from Carl Jung:

“One does not become enlightened by imagining figures of light, but by making the darkness conscious.” – Carl Jung.

Honestly, why would anyone want to conjure up the darkness? I understand the necessity of addressing childhood wounds, negative thoughts, and schemas (I talked about this in my book Made of Still), but I’m afraid I have to disagree with the idea of making darkness conscious. Why would anyone want to live and perpetually integrate with the darkness?

Another thing is that different shadow work PDFs & videos online openly integrate new-age stuff like spirit guides, cleansing using sage, salt circles for protection, drinking water with cosmic flames, chakra alignment, praying to archangels, etc.

Dangers of Mirror Gazing in Shadow Work

Mirror gazing, also known as scrying, is an ancient divination practice that involves staring at a reflective surface (mirror) to induce a trance-like state. This technique has been used for centuries by different cultures and spiritual traditions as a means of divination or communicating with the spirit world.

In recent years, mirror gazing has gained popularity in the New Age community as a tool for shadow work. By looking into a mirror, individuals are said to be able to confront their deepest fears, insecurities, and traumas.

While mirror gazing may seem harmless on the surface, it can have serious consequences in the spiritual realm. Many Christian leaders and counselors have warned against this practice, stating that it opens a door for demonic influence and can lead to spiritual oppression.

In addition, some agnostic & non-Christian YouTubers have shared their own experiences with mirror gazing, cautioning that it can have permanent effects under certain conditions. They warn that prolonged gazing into a mirror can lead to hallucinations and even potential possession by demonic entities.

Is Shadow Work Demonic? 15 Alarming Reasons to Consider

1. Rooted in pagan and demonic intelligence

As mentioned earlier, Carl Jung was interested in occultism and spiritual practices such as séances. This raises concerns about the legitimacy of his theories and the potential influence of pagan and demonic intelligence on them.

2. Focusing on self

One of the main goals of shadow work is to understand better and integrate one’s own shadow. However, as Christians, we are called to deny ourselves and focus on serving God and others. In contrast, the Shadow Workbook promotes a self-centered approach.

3. Rabbit hole to nowhere

Although the concept of integrating one’s shadow may seem appealing, it can easily become an endless pursuit that leads nowhere.

Without a solid foundation in biblical truths, this spiritual practice can lead individuals down a dangerous path of self-obsession and spiritual confusion.

4. Shadow work has no scaffolding (dangerous)

Shadow work involves delving into one’s unconscious mind, which can be a daunting and potentially dangerous task without proper guidance and support.

The Shadow Workbook lacks any clear structure or guidance, making it a risky practice for individuals to undertake on their own.

5. Lack of professional guidance

What could possibly go wrong with unlocking suppressed emotions and traumas without a clinical expert? Well- a whole lot!

One of the main aspects of shadow work is confronting and integrating suppressed emotions. However, this can be dangerous for individuals who may not have a trained professional guiding them through the process. Trauma and emotional triggers can arise, leading to potential harm if not handled properly.

7. Opening dangerous realms

Similar to the Shadow Workbook, the enneagram is another popular tool that aims to help individuals understand their personality types.

However, it also has connections to pagan and occult practices and can open dangerous spiritual realms.

8. Suspicious marketing tactics

Upon my research, I found a lot of coupons, affiliates, kickbacks, etc. The marketing tactics used by the creators of the Shadow Workbook raise questions about their true intentions.

The Bible warns us about the dangers of taking the easy and broad road rather than following the narrow path that leads to eternal life.

Some of the people who are using affiliate links make me question whether this is all a deception. Are they taking advantage of individuals struggling with emotional wounds?

9. Who is leading this spiritual work? (light vs. dark)

It is important to question who is behind creating and promoting spiritual tools such as the Shadow Workbook.

As Christians, we should be wary of anything that does not align with biblical teachings and could potentially lead us away from God.

10. Mirror gazing – a dangerous practice

As stated earlier, one of the practices suggested in the Shadow Workbook is mirror gazing, which involves staring into one’s own reflection in a dimly lit room to connect with one’s subconscious mind.

This technique has been linked to demonic manifestations and hallucinations, making it a dangerous practice for individuals to engage in.

11. Distracts from true spiritual growth

As Christians, our ultimate goal should be to grow our relationship with God and become more like Christ.

Engaging in practices such as shadow work can distract us from this essential purpose and lead us down a path that ultimately leads nowhere.

12. Reliance on your own strength and abilities

The concepts and practices promoted in the Shadow Workbook are based on using one’s own individual strength without Clinical or Biblical help.

This is quite a burden for someone to carry if they have to walk through this alone, especially without help from God.

13. Ignores the power of forgiveness and redemption

Shadow work operates under the belief that individuals must accept and integrate their darker aspects, but it does not acknowledge the power of forgiveness and redemption through Jesus Christ.

As Christians, we believe in the transformative power of God’s grace and forgiveness.

14. Can lead to self-condemnation

The focus on confronting one’s shadow and darker aspects can also lead to self-condemnation and a negative view of oneself.

However, as Christians, we are called to see ourselves through God’s eyes – as loved and cherished children of God, even with our imperfections and flaws.

Therefore, we must be cautious about any practice leading to self-condemnation rather than self-acceptance through Christ.

15. Takes away from reliance on God

One of the dangers of engaging in practices such as shadow work is that it can take away from our reliance on God and His guidance in our lives.

Instead of seeking God’s will and plan for us, we may become fixated on self-improvement and self-discovery, ultimately leading us away from the true source of transformation – Christ.

Therefore, it is important to prioritize our relationship with God and seek His guidance rather than relying solely on our own efforts.

Who’s to blame for the shadow work fame?

As Christians, we can be quick to blame the usual culprits – social media, etc. for the rise of the Shadow work. I’ve seen Christian influencers utterly maddened by the rise and deception of Shadow work.

However, I want to bring in another point. Have you noticed some Christian influencers charge exorbitant fees for their teachings and training?

Yes, Christian influencers often charge too much for knowledge God has given freely. However, New Agers freely or cheaply share their basic/minimum knowledge. Christians choose to put a hefty price tag on the same information.

Ouch…I know, but I honestly need to hold all of us (me included) accountable.

Now, here’s the catch. I know they (non-Christians) aren’t offering the truth that only comes through Jesus. But boy, don’t they have a killer campaign promising valuable information, comprehensive training, or podcasts at little to no cost.

Of course, the caveat is you will engage in New Age practices like reiki, yoga, chakra alignments, and meditation in the session. They do it so naturally and not in that “shove it down your throat” or “you are going to hell if you don’t sign up” theatrics.

I also know this is a controversial topic and often ignites heated discussions among believers. Please keep an open mind.

Now, let’s pause and think: If you are desperate for an answer and can’t find an affordable answer from a Christian leader/influencer, would you buy a journal under $20 that is heavily marketed? Well, for some, that would be a hard YES.

Let us not fall into the trap of commercializing our faith and teachings, especially to bear minimum information. And when we choose to charge for our teachings or expertise, let us do so with a humble heart, fairness, and alignment with God’s will.

Navigating in a World of Trends (Shadow Work Solutions)

In today’s world, there is always a new trend just around the corner. From fashion and beauty to technology and social media, trends seem to come and go rapidly. And as Christians, it can be easy to get caught up in these trends without even realizing it.

Here are two essential tips:

1. Discernment

As we navigate through this constantly changing world, it is important to have discernment. We must be able to distinguish between what is temporary and what is truly valuable and lasting. This means not blindly following every trend that comes our way but carefully considering whether or not it aligns with our beliefs and values as Christians.

Furthermore, we must also remember that we live in a fallen world. While trends may seem harmless or even fun at first, they can often lead us down a path toward sin and deception. This is where discernment becomes crucial. We must be able to recognize when something may be leading us away from God and choose to follow Him instead.

2. Be aware of the slippery slope of legalism

It’s also important to understand that our motivations for doing what is right should come from a place of love for God, not fear. We do not follow His commandments because we are afraid of punishment but because we love and trust Him. This should be the driving force behind all of our actions.

While it may be tempting to want to know everything about the origin and history of every trend, the truth is that we can never fully understand or control everything in this world. Do you know the source of your organic apples or herbal tea? What if it was from a home that submits to an ungodly altar?

Friends, even if we research and analyze a trend, we sometimes never truly know its intentions or effects. This is where faith, prayer, consecration, and a life of holiness come in. When we are in true covenant with God, He will thwart even things we are unaware of.

Warnings Against Shadow Work in the Bible

Since this Shadow workbook originated from divination, I would like to mention the following verses:

In Deuteronomy 18:10-12, God warns His people against practicing any form of divination, sorcery or witchcraft:

“… anyone who practices divination or tells fortunes or interprets omens, or a sorcerer or a charmer or a medium or a necromancer or one who inquires of the dead, for whoever does these things is an abomination to the Lord (Deuteronomy 18:10-12 ESV)

Secondly, shadow work involves seeking guidance or help from sources other than God. In 1 Samuel 28:7-8, King Saul seeks out a medium to inquire of the dead:

“Then Saul said to his servants, ‘Seek out for me a woman who is a medium, that I may go to her and inquire of her.’ And his servants said to him, ‘Behold, there is a medium at En-dor.'” (1 Samuel 28:7-8 ESV)

This act ultimately leads to Saul’s downfall as he disobeys God’s commandment not to seek out mediums or inquire of the dead (Deuteronomy 18:11).

Finally, shadow work is often associated with deceit and manipulation. In Acts 16:16-18, a slave girl possessed by a spirit of divination follows Paul and Silas, proclaiming them as servants of God:

“She followed Paul and us, crying out, ‘These men are servants of the Most High God, who proclaim to you the way of salvation.’ And this she kept doing for many days. Paul, having become greatly annoyed, turned and said to the spirit, ‘I command you in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her.’ And it came out that very hour.” (Acts 16:17-18 ESV)

While it may seem like the girl is proclaiming the truth on the surface, her true intention is revealed when Paul casts out the spirit. This shows how shadow work can be used to deceive and manipulate others for personal gain.

And that’s it, folks, my answer to “Is Shadow Work Demonic?”

I hope this post has given you enough information to help you do your own reflection and research.

As I conclude, I want to end by sharing that I’m African. I can tell you we (Africans) are very aware of the spiritual realm. It’s not all myth and legend there. It’s real life. Now, here’s the thing… Africans don’t willingly open themselves to dark spiritual stuff unless they are ignorant, stubborn, or willing to go to the abyss with the consequences that follow.

So essentially, that’s my view of the shadow work. You can probably pick it up, and nothing happens, but the fact is that there is an open door—spiritual ACCESS. My question is, who or what will go through that open door?

You can read more points on the blog posts below as I refrained from repeating my points.

P.S.  I 100% believe in psychotherapy. I do. I’ve seen people transform from receiving the right treatment modalities with a licensed professional.

Lastly, see my disclaimer.

Hugs,