I Kings 17:21

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“And he stretched himself upon the child three times, and cried unto the Lord, and said, O Lord my God, I pray you, let this child’s soul come into him again.”

Does I Kings 17:21 prove that man has an immortal soul?

The word “soul” in this verse does not refer to an immortal soul. It is translated from the Hebrew word nephesh, meaning “breath” or “anything that breathes” (Analytical Hebrew and Chaldee Dictionary). This same word—nephesh—is found in Genesis 2:7. Notice: “And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul.” Notice the word “became.” In other words, men do not have souls—they are souls!

In I Kings 17:21, Elijah was praying that God return the “breath of life” to the dead little boy. God answered Elijah’s prayer and the boy was miraculously revived.

The Restored Church of God has prepared many booklets and articles that address the pagan doctrine of the immortal soul. Those listed below contain the most detail. Other verses are addressed later. Suggested reading:

• The Truth About Hell

• Is There Life After Death?

• Bible Introduction Course Lesson 9 – WHO AND WHAT IS MAN?