On the Nature of Non-Human Entities.

[larsegarots]

I also believe all Creation reveals God’s Glory. There are some interesting versus in the Bible which place animals in very high regard. For example, In Mark 16:15, Jesus told His disciples to, “Preach my gospel to all creation.” The word gospel in Greek means good news, and it is good news that is to be preached to all creation, not just all humans.

Another interesting example is Job 12:10: “But ask the beasts and let them teach you; and the birds of the Heavens and let them tell you; and let the fish of the sea declare to you. Who among all these does not know that the hand of the Lord has done this, in whose hand is the life of every living thing and the breath of all mankind?”

“The word “life” here is the word Nephesh which means breath, life, being, or soul. It is the same Hebrew word that was used in Genesis 2:7 when God breathed into Adam’s nostrils and made Adam a living being. This is usually the passage that is quoted to prove that Humans have a soul. If Human beings have a soul, then animals must too, since the exact same word is used in reference to them.” proofgodexists.org/animals_do_have_eternal_life.htm

 

[Ghosty]

St. Basil wrote in the Hexaemeron that the soul of animals is earth. In other words, their souls do not survive the dissolution of their bodies in death. He also wrote that when Scripture states, “let the earth bring forth a living soul,” this again distinguishes between the soul of animal and the soul of man, for the soul of man is “a living soul” which can survive the dissolution of the body. Further, he wrote that the soul of man is rational, but the soul of animal is not.

…basically everything you guys have written. I just thought I’d give you guys some patristic back-up.

Blessings,
Marduk

I didn’t think about it until you posted this, but there is also Scriptural indication of this same fact. In Genesis, God commands the earth and water to produce animals and plants, but He directly creates Adam and Eve (albeit from the earth, so there remains something of the material in us).

Peace and God bless!