Book explores ‘darkness’ of yoga
A book warns Christians about the spiritual dangers of yoga, highlighting how its terminology and actions can lead practitioners into deception and darkness, echoing biblical warnings against false teaching and spiritual compromise.
2 Corinthians 11:13-15
Direct Principle“For such men are false apostles, deceitful workmen, disguising themselves as apostles of Christ. And no wonder, for even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. So it is no surprise if his servants, also, disguise themselves as servants of righteousness. Their end will correspond to their deeds.”
Why this passage
Paul warns the Corinthian church against false teachers who appear righteous but are actually servants of Satan. The principle is that deception often comes wrapped in attractive, seemingly beneficial packages.
This same principle applies to yoga: a practice that promises physical health and mental peace but is rooted in Hindu spirituality and can lead practitioners away from exclusive devotion to Christ. The 'angel of light' disguise is the wellness and relaxation language that masks the spiritual darkness beneath.
Behold, the enemy prowls not only in open persecution but in the subtle allure of practices that seem harmless. As the apostle Paul warned, "Satan disguises himself as an angel of light" (2 Corinthians 11:14).
Yoga, with its postures and breathwork rooted in Hindu spirituality, can draw the unwary into a darkness that masquerades as wellness. Let this warning stir you to test all things by Scripture, for the heart is deceitful and the path to error is often paved with good intentions.
Today's Prayer
Pray for discernment among Christians who may be unknowingly entangled in spiritual practices that contradict their faith, and for the author's warning to reach those who need to hear it.
Further Scripture
Additional passages that illuminate this event, each grounded in a distinct interpretive lens.
“See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ.”
Why this passage
Paul warns the Colossians against being taken captive by human traditions and worldly philosophies that are not rooted in Christ. The 'elemental spirits of the world' refers to spiritual forces or basic principles that oppose the gospel.
Yoga, as a practice originating in Hindu philosophy and spirituality, fits this description: it is a human tradition that can captivate Christians through its physical and mental benefits while subtly introducing non-Christian spiritual concepts like chakras, energy channels, and union with the divine apart from Christ.
How it applies
The book's warning about yoga's 'confusing or misleading' terminology aligns with Paul's admonition. Christians must examine whether any practice, however popular, is 'according to Christ' or according to the elemental spirits of the world.
Yoga's terminology can indeed take one captive through empty deceit.
“Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world.”
Why this passage
John commands believers to test every spirit because false prophets are active in the world. This is a call to discernment in all spiritual matters, not just overtly religious teachings.
Yoga, while often presented as secular or merely physical, involves spiritual elements (mantras, meditation on chakras, bowing to teachers) that require testing. The 'darkness' Carl warns about is the spiritual reality behind the practice that must be discerned through the Spirit.
How it applies
Christians should apply John's command to test the spirits when considering yoga. The book's warning serves as a call to discernment: do not assume a practice is neutral because it is popular.
Test whether its spiritual roots align with Christ or with the spirit of the age.
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Source: ewtnnews— we link to the original for full context.