Breath
“Breath, spirit”
Summary
The life-giving force from God, symbolizing both physical life and the Spirit's work in creation and redemption.
☩The Breath of Life
God breathed into Adam's nostrils the breath of life, and man became a living soul. All creatures depend on God for breath; when He takes it away, they die and return to dust. The breath of every living thing is in God's hand.
☩The Breath of God
God's breath represents His power in creation and judgment. By His breath the heavens were made, and the hosts of the wicked are consumed by the breath of His nostrils. Yet His breath also gives understanding to mankind.
☩New Testament Usage
Jesus breathed on His disciples and said 'Receive the Holy Spirit,' connecting breath with the giving of the Spirit. The word for spirit (pneuma) is related to the word for breath or wind.
Related Verses46 mentions
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Breath," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. I (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).