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  • From: Dgahler782 AT aol.com
  • To: b-hebrew AT lists.ibiblio.org
  • Subject: [b-hebrew] Nefesh vs Neshama
  • Date: Sun, 24 Aug 2003 14:53:48 EDT

I am grateful for the fascinating discussion re nefesh and would like to add
that, in the verses mentioned, it is not "nefesh mot" but "nefesh met", which
is either a qal perfect or an active participle, whereas mot is the
infinitive absolute - doesn't this change the meaning somewhat? Nefesh
definitely
cannot be equated with "soul", a better approximation would be life-force,
which
also explains the association with blood and breath. When either blood or
breath cease flowing, out flows life.
However, my larger interest is the juxtaposition of Nefesh with Neshama and
the difference in meaning. A primary example, is of course, Gen. 2:7 where
the
(construct) nishmat-chayim (soul of life?) is needed for Adam to become a
nefesh-chayah ( a living being?) Does this mean that for humans to be
alive,they must receive a soul - since animals have/are nefesh without soul?

Also, what is the etymology of neshama? (I don't have a BDB). Thx for all
replies.
Doris



  • [b-hebrew] Nefesh vs Neshama, Dgahler782, 08/24/2003

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