In the sanctity of marriage, spiritual beliefs should uplift and unite partners. However, when faith is misused to control or undermine, it becomes a tool of oppression known as spiritual abuse. This form of abuse is especially insidious, as it exploits deeply held beliefs and can leave women feeling trapped and helpless. If you suspect you’re experiencing spiritual abuse in marriage, you’re not alone.

Understanding this form of manipulation is the first step towards reclaiming your strength. If you need support, attend a Betrayal Trauma Group Session TODAY.

What is Spiritual Abuse in Marriage?

Spiritual abuse in marriage involves the misuse of religious beliefs or practices to exert power over a spouse. It’s a subtle and damaging form of abuse that distorts spirituality into a weapon rather than a source of comfort and support. Recognizing the signs can be challenging, but it’s crucial for your emotional and spiritual well-being.

Seven Signs of Spiritual Abuse in Marriage

1. He Uses Scriptures to Oppress You

If your husband quotes scriptures to justify his control over you or diminish your worth, it’s a clear sign of spiritual abuse. Scriptures should inspire love and mutual respect, not subjugation.

2. He Claims God Has Given Him Messages That Only Benefit Him

Does he often say that God has spoken to him in ways that conveniently support his desires while disregarding yours? This manipulation can make you doubt your own spiritual intuition and keep you in a state of submission.

3. He Believes in Oppressive, Misogynistic Gender Roles

When religious beliefs are twisted to reinforce outdated gender roles that belittle or demean women, it’s a form of spiritual abuse. Healthy relationships are built on equality and mutual respect.

4. He Manipulates Clergy to Put You in Your Place

If your partner uses religious leaders to shame or reprimand you, he’s leveraging spiritual authority to control you. True spiritual guidance should empower and uplift, not control.

5. He Uses Misogynistic Religious Traditions to Exploit You

Twisting religious traditions to suit his needs while ignoring your rights or feelings is a clear sign of spiritual abuse. Every tradition should be evaluated for its alignment with love and respect.

6. He Shames You for Not Being Perfect in Your Faith

Criticizing your spiritual practices or saying you don’t believe enough because you don’t worship like he does is abusive. Faith is a personal and evolving journey, not a tool for judgment.

7. He Tells You God Doesn’t Approve of You

Weaponizing divine approval to control or manipulate you implies that love and acceptance are conditional, which is never true in healthy relationships.

Finding Support When Your Facing Spiritual Abuse In Marriage

To discover your husband’s true character and know if you’re experiencing spiritual abuse in marriage, enroll in The BTR.ORG Living Free Workshop to learn how to discover the truth about your husband.