The biblical distinction between the human “soul” and “spirit” establishes that a person IS a soul, rather than possessing one. The soul is the entire living being or human life, created when God formed man’s body from dust and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life. In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word for soul/being is nephesh (Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance #5315), meaning “a breathing creature.”
In the New Testament, the corresponding Greek word is psuch? (Strong’s #5590), defined as the “animal sentient principle only.” This term, psuch?, is scripturally interchangeable with “life” and refers to the mortal human creature dependent on bodily function and sustenance. Both humans and animals are referred to as souls in the Scriptures, although humanity is unique for being created in God’s image.
In contrast, the “spirit” is not a tangible entity. It is an unseen power or influence. The Old Testament Hebrew word is ruach (Strong’s #7307), meaning wind, breath or mind. Its New Testament counterpart, pneuma (Strong’s #4151), refers to a current of air, vital principle, or mental disposition. The human spirit, which is formed within each person, specifically represents the energy, drive, motivation, focus or discipline of the individual. We might use the expression that a person has an “angry” spirit, or a “willing” spirit.
The terms soul and spirit are not interchangeable. The soul is the physical life and being, while the spirit is the resulting intangible energy, influence and focus of that life’s existence. This distinction is crucial because the spirit is intangible, meaning it cannot be physically touched, yet it is tangible in the sense that it can impact others through inspiration, passion and memory.
Both the soul and the human spirit are mortal, as they are not inherently immortal sparks of divinity. The word of God is described as so sharp that it is able to pierce “as far as the division of soul and spirit.” This scriptural division serves to separate a person’s human life (the soul, often reflecting carnality) from the spiritual influence that should guide them. For true Christians, this spiritual influence is God’s holy spirit, which works alongside their own spirit (motivation/drive) to help them subdue the flesh and be led to sonship.
Additional Resources:
Christian Questions Podcast
Episode #1227: Where Do the Human Soul and Spirit Go When We Die? (Part I)
Defining what the human soul is and is not, and its destiny at death
Preview Video
CQ Rewind Show Notes
Episode #1228: Where Do the Human Soul and Spirit Go When We Die? (Part II)
Defining what the human spirit is and is not, and its destiny at death
Preview Video
CQ Rewind Show Notes
