Generational Curse Theory

Definition

Generational curse theory explains recurring misfortunes in a family, such as illness, poverty, divorce, and accidents, as the result of a curse that has come down from the sins of ancestors. It teaches that the curse is lifted only when the ancestors' sins are identified and repented of and prayers of declaration are offered to break it. The teaching spread through Korean churches in the 1990s by way of translated books and revival meetings.

Scriptures Cited in Support

• "Visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation" (Exodus 20:5).
• The prayers of Nehemiah and Daniel, who confessed the sins of their forefathers.

Criticism

• The same verse applies to "them that hate me," and goes on to say that God shows mercy "unto thousands of them that love me."
• Ezekiel 18 says that the proverb "The fathers have eaten sour grapes, and the children's teeth are set on edge" is no longer to be used, and declares that each person is judged for his own sin.
• "Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us" (Galatians 3:13). The teaching that a curse still remains on believers renders the atonement of the cross insufficient.
• Jesus said of the man born blind that his condition was not due to the sin of his parents (John 9:3).
• Attributing misfortune to one's ancestors heightens anxiety and resembles the ancestor-blaming found in Korean shamanism.

Several denominations, including the Presbyterian Church of Korea (Tonghap) and the General Assembly of Presbyterian Church in Korea (Hapdong), are reported to have concluded, through study reports presented to their general assemblies, that generational curse theory is inconsistent with the teaching of Scripture (heresy designations).

Points of Distinction

Critics also acknowledge that parents' lives affect their children—that is, that family wounds and bad habits can be passed from one generation to the next. Addressing these is the work of counseling and pastoral care. What critics object to is explaining such patterns as a "spiritual curse" and teaching that they must be broken through special rituals.