For victims who hold deep spiritual beliefs, this kind of abuse can be especially disorienting and traumatic, as it strikes at the core of their identity and sense of purpose. Many times, narcissists will present themselves as spiritually superior, using their supposed moral authority to belittle the victim, making them feel unworthy, sinful, or spiritually deficient. They might use scripture, religious rules, or spiritual philosophies to justify their abusive behavior, convincing the victim that they must endure suffering or submit to the narcissist’s control as a form of divine will. Additionally, they may invalidate the victim’s spiritual experiences or beliefs, claiming that their own understanding of spirituality is the only correct one.
This form of manipulation can isolate the victim from their spiritual community or support system, leaving them feeling abandoned not only by their social network but by their faith itself. As a result, the victim may begin to question their spiritual worth, lose their sense of connection to a higher power, or believe that they are spiritually flawed or condemned. Spiritual abuse further entangles the victim in the narcissist’s web of control by turning a source of strength and guidance into a weapon of oppression and fear.
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