What is a chakra?

TL;DR:

Chakras are energy points in Eastern religions, but they are not compatible with biblical Christianity.

Scripture doesn’t mention chakras or endorse the concept of energy points within the body. Scripture teaches that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20) and that true spiritual growth comes through faith in Jesus Christ and the work of the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:16-25). While the Bible acknowledges spiritual realities, it warns against engaging in practices rooted in other spiritual systems (Deuteronomy 18:10-12; Acts 19:19). Christians are called to focus on God's truth revealed in Scripture and to be transformed by the renewing of their minds (Romans 12:2) rather than seeking spiritual experiences through meditation techniques or energy manipulation.

from the old testament

Deuteronomy 18:10-12 warns against various occult practices, including divination and spiritism. While chakras are not specifically mentioned, this principle cautions against engaging in spiritual practices outside of what God has ordained.
Psalm 139:13-14 - David praises God for how he is "fearfully and wonderfully made." This emphasizes God's role in creating our bodies, contrasting with the chakra system's view of the body's spiritual anatomy.

from the new testament

1 Corinthians 6:19-20 - Paul teaches that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit. This contradicts the idea of chakras as energy centers, emphasizing instead the indwelling presence of God's Spirit.
Colossians 2:8 - Paul cautions against being taken captive by philosophy and empty deceit. This applies to adopting belief systems like chakras that are not founded on Christ.
Galatians 5:22-23 - The fruit of the Spirit describes the outcome of true spiritual growth in Christ, contrasting with the supposed spiritual awakening sought through chakra meditation.

implications for today

While some people may find temporary benefits or interesting experiences through chakra-related practices, these do not align with Christian theology and can potentially lead believers away from the truth of the Gospel. Instead of seeking spiritual fulfillment through manipulating energy points, Christians are called to grow in their relationship with God through prayer, studying Scripture, and living out their faith in community with other believers. This not only aligns with biblical teaching but also provides a solid foundation for genuine spiritual growth and transformation.

understand

The Bible does not mention chakras and emphasizes spiritual growth through faith in Jesus and the Holy Spirit.
Scripture warns against practices outside God’s teachings.
Christians are encouraged to seek spiritual fulfillment through prayer and Scripture rather than chakra-related practices.
ENGAGE
How do you personally understand spiritual growth?
How have you encountered practices that conflict with biblical teachings, and how did you respond?
How can you cultivate a deeper relationship with God through prayer and Scripture in your daily life?

reflect

engage

How do you personally understand spiritual growth?
How have you encountered practices that conflict with biblical teachings, and how did you respond?
How can you cultivate a deeper relationship with God through prayer and Scripture in your daily life?
REFLECT
How does the concept of our bodies being temples of the Holy Spirit challenge or affirm your views on spiritual practices?
What are some specific examples of philosophies or practices in today’s culture that you believe could lead believers away from the truth of the Gospel?
How can the teachings in Deuteronomy 18:10-12 inform our choices regarding spiritual practices we engage with or promote?