The term “indigo children” refers to children who are believed to have special traits and abilities. The concept originated in the 1970s when self-proclaimed psychic and synesthete Nancy Ann Tappe claimed to see indigo-colored auras around certain children. She believed these children had a special mission – to bring about positive change in the world.
There is no scientific evidence to support the claims about indigo children. However, the concept has gained popularity among some new age and spiritual communities. Proponents believe indigo children:
- Have a strong sense of self and may be independent thinkers
- Are highly intuitive, empathetic and perceptive
- Are creatively gifted and may display psychic abilities
- Have a wisdom and maturity beyond their years
- Dislike rigid rules and structures
- Resist authority and can be strong-willed
- Are often misdiagnosed with behavioral disorders like ADHD
- Feel like outsiders and may have trouble fitting in
While these traits are not exclusively linked to indigo children, some people feel the term validates their child’s strengths and challenges. However, experts warn the indigo label can lead to inflated self-perceptions and refusal to accept other explanations for a child’s behavior, potentially delaying treatment for issues like ADHD, learning disabilities or mental health problems.
There is no reference to “indigo children” in the Bible. However, the Bible does speak about children generally and provides wisdom applicable for raising and guiding all children, regardless of any special labels. Here are some key biblical principles relating to children:
Children are a gift and blessing from God
The Bible describes children as a blessing and heritage from the Lord. For example:
Sons are a heritage from the Lord, children a reward from him. (Psalm 127:3)
Children are seen as gifts to be cherished, not burdens to bear:
Sons are a heritage from the Lord, children a reward from him. Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are children born in one’s youth. Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them. (Psalm 127:3-5)
Nurturing children is part of God’s plan
Parents have a responsibility to raise their children in the training and instruction of the Lord:
Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord. (Ephesians 6:4)
The Book of Proverbs provides extensive advice to parents on teaching and disciplining children rightly:
Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it. (Proverbs 22:6)
Children can walk in truth and wisdom
The Bible recognizes children are capable of obedience, discernment and wisdom:
I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth. (3 John 1:4)
Even a child makes himself known by his acts, by whether his conduct is pure and upright. (Proverbs 20:11)
Timothy was an example of a young person with spiritual wisdom who brought joy to the Apostle Paul:
I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also. (2 Timothy 1:5)
Children can be filled with the Holy Spirit
The prophet Joel prophesied about the Holy Spirit being poured out on all people, including sons and daughters:
“And afterward, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream dreams, your young men will see visions. Even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days. (Joel 2:28-29)
At Pentecost, Peter confirmed this prophecy was being fulfilled:
Then Peter stood up with the Eleven, raised his voice and addressed the crowd: “Fellow Jews and all of you who live in Jerusalem, let me explain this to you; listen carefully to what I say. These people are not drunk, as you suppose. It’s only nine in the morning! No, this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel: ‘In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams.’ (Acts 2:14-17)
Childhood innocence is valued
Jesus valued qualities often present in children like innocence, humility and receptiveness. He said:
“Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 18:3-4)
Children were brought to Jesus for blessing, which he welcomed:
Then people brought little children to Jesus for him to place his hands on them and pray for them. But the disciples rebuked them. Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” (Matthew 19:13-14)
Caring for children pleases God
Jesus emphasized the importance of caring for children in his name, promising blessings for those who do:
He took a little child whom he placed among them. Taking the child in his arms, he said to them, “Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me does not welcome me but the one who sent me.” (Mark 9:36-37)
All children are precious to God
The Bible makes no distinction between “ordinary” children and those with special traits or labels. All are equally precious in God’s eyes. Parents should seek to nurture the unique qualities of each child while also addressing any special needs or challenges.
The instruction in Proverbs 22:6 to “train up a child in the way he should go” underscores the importance of understanding the individual personality, gifts and temperament of each child. Rather than expecting children to conform to rigid expectations, parents do best to work with each child’s natural inclinations while providing loving guidance towards Godly wisdom and character.
Key principles for Christian parenting
While the “indigo” label for children has no biblical basis, the Bible provides ample instruction on godly parenting and child guidance applicable for all children, including:
- Show unconditional love
- Model godliness in your own life
- Teach consistently from the scriptures
- Train children in wisdom and truth
- Correct with patience and compassion
- Avoid harshness and cruelty
- Work with each child’s unique personality and strengths
- Pray for God’s guidance and discernment
Cautions about the indigo label
While acknowledging every child as precious, the Bible warns against showing favoritism or inflating a child’s ego:
Parents, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them. (Colossians 3:21)
Labels like “indigo” may lead parents to excuse poor behavior or neglect their child’s real needs. The Biblical model is to nurture humility, wisdom and self-discipline in children.
There are no perfect children – only a perfect Savior. Parents are called to seek God’s grace daily, identify their child’s unique strengths and challenges, and apply Biblical principles with wisdom and discernment.
With prayerful dependence on the Holy Spirit, any tendencies towards self-centeredness, pride or poor behavior can be overcome. Applying these Biblical truths can help cultivate maturity and Godly character in all children.
