Examples of narcissism can be found throughout the pages of the Bible—from the stories of Saul and Jezebel to the account of Satan himself. Yet today, the term narcissism is often used as though it were something new or a recent problem taking root in society. Scripture warns that, in the last days, people will become “lovers of self”—a phrase that closely reflects what modern translations and psychology describe as narcissism. Because this issue plays such a volatile role in both today’s culture and biblical theology, it is important for believers to understand it from both a historical and spiritual perspective. So, let’s begin with where the term originated.
The term “Narcissus” originates in Greek mythology and is associated with a young, beautiful hunter who became captivated by his own reflection in a pool of water. So entranced that he could not pull himself away to eat or drink. Ultimately, his obsession with himself destroyed him, and he died beside the pool. According to the myth, the Greek gods buried his body and transformed his remains into a blooming flower: the narcissus, commonly associated with the daffodil family. Daffodils still bow toward the earth today, as though echoing the fate of the beautiful hunter who could not bear to look away from the water below. The Bible support this essential theory in the fact it mentions a man named Narcissus in Romans 16:11, and his name translated means “flower.” Perhaps the most intriguing fact about this flower is what happens when it is placed in a vase with other blooms. Narcissus flowers release a thick sap that can clog the stems of nearby flowers, preventing them from absorbing water. In effect, they can starve the surrounding flowers of one of their most basic needs, eventually killing them.
The reflection of this lesson can still be seen in the field of psychology today, particularly when examining modern narcissism. Narcissists are often described as having an inflated sense of self—sometimes at the expense of those around them. In fact, many people who emerge from seasons of narcissistic abuse describe feeling much the same: deprived of basic needs, emotionally depleted, and harmed by the weight of a stressful environment. They may question whether something is wrong with them, only to discover in therapy that it was the narcissistic "sap" draining their ability to grow, thrive, or even remain healthy. For years, we have called this trait a disorder, when in truth it a demon. A spirit of illusion rooted in the same obsession and pride embodied by Narcissus. Selfishness is not merely an isolated behavior. It is a spiritual root that can strangle life—not only within the individual, but also in everyone around them. This is why God is so clear in His Word about avoiding such people and pointing out the impacts of behaviors, as referenced in 1 Timothy 2 and 3, James 3:16, Proverbs 18:2, and 1 Corinthians 5:11. The nature of a self-centered person stands in direct opposition to the nature of a godly one. That is why the term "Christian narcissism" is a contradiction; the two are, in fact, nemeses. You can read more about this in my book, I Bear the Marks.
The foundational truth we must understand as we connect the dots is this: Saul’s narcissism sought David’s life. Jezebel’s narcissism sought Elijah’s life. Satan’s narcissism seeks your life. And when he cannot seem to lay his hands on you directly, he will place someone in your path to do so. That is why wisdom and discernment are essential—so you can recognize when it is time to get out of the vase.
Sincerely Selena
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