Anime, a style of animation that originated in Japan, has become increasingly popular around the world in recent decades. As anime has gained more viewers, many Christians have wondered what the Bible says about watching these animated shows and movies. Here is an overview of some key biblical principles to consider when evaluating anime from a Christian perspective.
Consider the Content and Themes
One of the most important factors is to look at the actual content and themes in any given anime. Anime covers a huge range of topics and genres, from family-friendly films to more mature action series. Philippians 4:8 instructs believers to focus our minds on things that are noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent and praiseworthy. Some anime promotes values and beliefs that align with a Christian worldview, while other series feature extensive violence, sexuality or offensive language.
Christians should use discernment to avoid anime with themes of magic and the occult, which are forbidden according to Deuteronomy 18:10-12. Content involving sexuality or nudity should also be avoided, as 1 Corinthians 6:18 warns us to flee from sexual immorality. When evaluating an anime, it’s important to look at the actual story, characters and subject matter – not just the fact that it is animated.
Avoid Addiction or Obsession
Another issue to be mindful of is the amount of time spent watching anime. While animation itself is not intrinsically harmful, no form of entertainment should become an idol in our lives. 1 Corinthians 6:12 reminds believers that “all things are lawful for me, but not all things are helpful.” Christians should have balance and avoid any obsession or addiction with entertainment such as anime.
Signs of unhealthy anime viewing may include neglecting responsibilities to watch more shows, preferring to watch anime over spending time with family and friends, or an inability to stop watching. If anime consumes our thoughts and energies, it has become too important in our lives. As Psalm 1:2 says, believers should delight in God’s Word, not just the entertainment of this world.
Consider Your Conscience and Maturity Level
The Bible encourages Christians to have a clear conscience before God when making choices about morally neutral matters. Romans 14:22-23 states: “So whatever you believe about these things keep between yourself and God. Blessed is the one who does not condemn himself by what he approves. But whoever has doubts is condemned if they eat, because their eating is not from faith; and everything that does not come from faith is sin.”
Watching anime is not specifically forbidden in Scripture. But if a believer feels unsure or conviction from the Holy Spirit about certain anime content, they should refrain from watching those series with a clear conscience. Additionally, maturity levels affect what anime may be suitable or unsuitable. Content that is acceptable for an adult may be inappropriate for a child.
Avoid Associations with Pagan Religions or Spirituality
Some series reference Japanese spirituality, pagan religions, mysticism or Eastern philosophies. While anime storylines themselves are fictional, believers should use wisdom to avoid any actual pagan or occult practices depicted in shows. Even fictional portrayals of magic, psychic powers, contacting spirits, or pagan worship would be off-limits according to Exodus 22:18 and other Bible verses.
Leviticus 19:31 states: “Do not turn to mediums or seek out spiritists, for you will be defiled by them. I am the LORD your God.” While not every supernatural element in anime is prohibited, Christians should thoughtfully consider if certain spiritual themes directly contradict biblical values.
Consider Your Influence on Others
1 Corinthians 10:23 notes that “All things are lawful, but not all things are helpful. All things are lawful, but not all things build up.” Watching certain anime may not directly harm a mature Christian. But believers should also consider how their example may influence fellow Christians with a weaker conscience or new believers ungrounded in Scripture.
For example, a series with graphic violence may be permissible for an adult believer with strong discernment skills. But young or vulnerable viewers may be negatively impacted by that content. As Romans 14:13 notes, Christians should avoid putting any stumbling block or obstacle in a fellow believer’s way.
Focus on Things That Are Noble, Right and Admirable
While anime is a broad medium, Christians can still apply biblical wisdom when choosing shows and films to watch. Philippians 4:8 provides excellent guidance: “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable-if anything is excellent or praiseworthy-think about such things.” Does the anime align with truth? Does it promote what is noble and right? This offers a thoughtful framework for evaluation.
Believers should pursue entertainment that does not violate Christian ethics or glorify sinful behavior. Of course, even “clean” stories have themes requiring analysis through a biblical lens. But just as we carefully consider the values embedded in all media, so Christians should also apply discernment to the anime genre.
Pursue Moderation and Christ-centered Freedom
1 Corinthians 10:31 reminds us: “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” Even permissible entertainment should be engaged in moderately and appropriately. Believers have freedom in Christ – including freedom to enjoy God’s creativity expressed through human art forms. But we are called to honor the Lord in all we do.
Responsibly viewing anime with discernment, avoiding objectionable content, and pursuing moderation allows believers to experience anime while still keeping Christ at the center of their lives. The Bible does not prohibit animation itself. Rather, Scripture provides wisdom for evaluating anime content so Christians can enjoy edifying entertainment for God’s glory.
Prioritize Time in God’s Word and Prayer
While anime can have value as part of a balanced life, it should not displace time spent in God’s Word, prayer and Christian fellowship. Joshua 1:8 shares the importance of Scripture meditation: “Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.”
Similarly, Colossians 3:16 encourages letting the Word of Christ dwell richly within us. Maintaining a vibrant devotional life is vital for every believer’s spiritual growth. Anime may complement our faith, but it should never compete with or diminish our biblical foundation and relationship with Christ.
Focus on Christ-like Values over Entertainment
As Christians, our identity is found in Jesus – not our hobbies and entertainment. While anime can be engaging and thought-provoking, believers should remember that following Christ requires viewing all of life through a biblical lens.
No anime – no matter how highly praised for artistic merit or entertainment value – should ever undermine or contradict core biblical values. Moral absolutes in Scripture regarding violence, sexuality and the occult remain in effect for Christ-followers, even when portrayed in the context of animation.
When evaluating any form of entertainment as believers, our highest goal is honoring Christ – not just having fun or being entertained. Christians can engage responsibly in anime when guided by spiritual discernment, wisdom and a desire to glorify God.
