Explore what the Bible says about soul ties—do they exist? Learn the difference between biblical truth and modern belief with clarity and compassion.
1. What Are “Soul Ties”? #
“Soul ties” are popularly defined as deep emotional, spiritual, or even sexual bonds formed between individuals—most often in romantic or physical relationships. In some Christian circles, especially in deliverance and inner healing ministries, these ties are viewed as invisible connections that can either bless or burden the soul. The belief is that these ties may bind people together long after physical separation, especially when forged through trauma, sin, or emotional dependency.
Proponents claim that negative soul ties can hinder spiritual growth, influence decision-making, or even allow demonic influence. Positive ones, they argue, are seen in healthy marriages or covenant friendships.
2. What Does Scripture Say About Soul Ties? #
Clearly Evident Cases #
The most cited passage is 1 Samuel 18:1, which says: “the soul of Jonathan was knit to the soul of David, and Jonathan loved him as his own soul.” This is widely seen as a picture of godly covenant friendship. Yet the term “soul tie” isn’t used here—nor is there any implication of mysticism or spiritual bondage.
Another reference is Genesis 2:24: “the two shall become one flesh.” This sexual and covenantal union is reiterated by Jesus in Matthew 19:5 and Paul in 1 Corinthians 6:16. Paul’s warning that “he who is joined to a prostitute becomes one body with her” is often cited as a “sexual soul tie.”
Vaguely Implied or Interpreted #
In Deuteronomy 13:6, the emotional pull of a “loved one” can lead someone into idolatry. Some suggest this shows emotional influence akin to a soul tie. Also, Genesis 34—where Shechem’s “soul was drawn to Dinah”—is cited as evidence of a controlling or harmful bond.
Yet none of these verses affirm the idea of a metaphysical soul connection. They reflect emotional intensity, not spiritual entanglement.
Is It Even a Real Thing Biblically? #
The Bible never mentions “soul ties” as a doctrinal category. Instead, it deals with covenants, one-flesh unions, friendships, and spiritual unity in Christ. Most uses of “soul” (nephesh in Hebrew, psuchē in Greek) refer to the person as a whole, not an independent part that can be “tied” to another soul.
The idea may be inferred, but it’s not explicit, not systematic, and certainly not emphasized.
3. Cultural & Theological Details Behind “Soul Ties” #
The soul tie concept likely emerged from a mix of biblical imagery, psychological language, and spiritual warfare models—especially within Charismatic and Pentecostal traditions. It became popular in the 1990s through deliverance teachings emphasizing healing from past trauma and ungodly relationships.
Terms like “ungodly soul ties” are often used to describe unhealthy relational dynamics that go beyond emotional attachment to alleged spiritual interference. These teachings often encourage “renunciation prayers” or breaking soul ties through confession and spiritual authority.
4. Denominational Views: Who Teaches Soul Ties? #
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Pentecostal/Charismatic: Generally affirm the idea, particularly in inner healing ministries (e.g., Cleansing Stream, Bethel Sozo).
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Evangelical Non-Charismatics: Typically skeptical, unless explicitly found in Scripture.
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Reformed, Lutheran, Anglican, Catholic: Do not teach soul ties as doctrine. These traditions emphasize biblical covenants, moral teaching, and sacraments rather than deliverance frameworks.
Conclusion: What Does the Bible Actually Support? #
There is no clear biblical doctrine of “soul ties.” The best-supported spiritual bonds in Scripture are those established by covenant (marriage, friendship, faith), not invisible cords of attachment. While emotions can run deep, and sinful relationships can leave spiritual consequences, these are best understood through biblical categories like repentance, renewal, and sanctification, not through extrabiblical metaphysics.
Soul ties may be a pastoral metaphor, but they are not a biblical fact. The believer’s healing comes through Christ, not through untangling unprovable soul webs.
That said, it is important to recognize that many who teach or believe in soul ties are well-intentioned, often motivated by a desire for deeper holiness and emotional healing. Their sincerity should not be dismissed. However, such teachings do not rest on the authority of sola scriptura, and therefore should be weighed carefully against the full counsel of God’s Word.
