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What is Enneagram
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The Enneagram is a personality typing system that is often used for self-discovery, personal growth, and understanding human behavior. It is believed to have ancient origins, although its precise historical development is a subject of debate among scholars. The word “Enneagram” is derived from the Greek words “ennea,” meaning “nine,” and “gramma,” meaning “figure” or “drawing,” reflecting its core structure of a nine-pointed diagram.
Here is a brief overview of the history and development of the Enneagram:
Ancient Origins: Some proponents of the Enneagram believe that its origins can be traced back to ancient spiritual and philosophical traditions, including Sufism, Christianity, and various Eastern mystical traditions. It is said to have been used as a tool for spiritual growth, self-awareness, and understanding human nature.
Modern Development: The modern development of the Enneagram as a personality typing system can be attributed to various individuals and groups in the 20th century. One of the earliest figures associated with its introduction to the West was George Ivanovich Gurdjieff, a spiritual teacher and mystic, who is said to have brought the Enneagram to the attention of Western audiences in the early 20th century.
Oscar Ichazo: In the 1950s and 1960s, Oscar Ichazo, a Bolivian-born mystic and teacher, claimed to have developed a comprehensive system of personality typology based on the Enneagram. He combined elements from various traditions and created a set of nine basic personality types, each associated with specific motivations, fears, and characteristics.
Claudio Naranjo: In the 1970s, psychiatrist Claudio Naranjo, a student of Ichazo, further popularized the Enneagram in the United States. He adapted and expanded the system, connecting it with psychology and personal development.
Subsequent Developments: Since its introduction by Ichazo and Naranjo, the Enneagram has continued to evolve. Numerous authors, teachers, and organizations have contributed to its development, offering their own interpretations and variations of the system. Today, there are many Enneagram schools and practitioners who offer workshops, books, and resources for individuals interested in exploring this personality typing system.
