soul, self

Definition

The term “soul” can either refer generally to the non-physical part of a person or refer specifically to a person’s awareness of themselves as a person distinct from others.

• In the Bible, the terms “soul” and “spirit” may be two different concepts, or they may be two terms that refer to the same concept.
• When a person dies, his soul leaves his body.
• In contrast to the body, the “soul” can be spoken of as the part of a person that “relates to God.”

Translation Suggestions

• The term “soul” could also be translated as “inner self” or “inner person.”
• In some contexts, “my soul” could be translated as “I” or “me.”
• Usually the phrase “the soul” can be translated as “the person” or “he” or “him,” depending on the context.
• Some languages might only have one word for the concepts “soul” and “spirit.”
• In Hebrews 4:12, the figurative phrase “dividing soul and spirit” could mean “deeply discerning or exposing the inner person.”

(See also: spirit)

Bible References

• 2 Peter 2:8
• Acts 2:27-28
• Acts 2:41
• Genesis 49:6
• Isaiah 53:10-11
• James 1:21
• Jeremiah 6:16-19
• Jonah 2:7-8
• Luke 1:47
• Matthew 22:37
• Psalms 19:7
• Revelation 20:4

Word Data

• Strong’s: H5082, H5315, H5397, G55900