spiritual incest

"Spiritual incest" can refer to inappropriate relationships in both religious and psychological contexts, involving emotional, psychological, or spiritual boundaries.

Definition

C2Religion

(formal, Christianity)The crime of living together between people who have a spiritual relationship through baptism or confirmation.

Example

  • The church condemned the act as spiritual incest because they were godparent and godchild.

C2Religion

(formal)When a vicar or other religious leader holds two positions where one depends on the other.

Example

  • Accusations of spiritual incest arose when the priest held multiple positions within the diocese.

C2Psychology

(informal, spirituality)Inappropriate emotional or psychological closeness between individuals, often involving misuse of authority or trust.

Example

  • The therapist was accused of spiritual incest for creating an unhealthy emotional dependency with their client.