The phrase "creatures with the breath of life" refers to living beings that possess the divine breath, a concept rooted in the creation narrative of the Bible. This phrase underscores the unique life-giving force bestowed by God upon His creation, distinguishing living creatures from inanimate objects.

Creation Account

In the Genesis creation account, God is depicted as the ultimate source of life. Genesis 1:30 states, "And to every beast of the earth and every bird of the air and every creature that crawls upon the earth—everything that has the breath of life in it—I have given every green plant for food.” This passage highlights that all living creatures, from the beasts of the earth to the birds of the air, are endowed with the breath of life, signifying their animation and vitality.

The Breath of Life in Humanity

The concept of the breath of life is particularly significant in the creation of humanity. Genesis 2:7 describes the formation of man: "Then the LORD God formed the man from the dust of the ground and breathed the breath of life into his nostrils, and the man became a living being." This act of God breathing life into man signifies a direct impartation of life, setting humans apart as bearers of God's image and establishing a unique relationship between the Creator and humanity.

The Flood Narrative

The breath of life is also a key element in the narrative of the Great Flood. In Genesis 7:15 , it is recorded, "They came to Noah to enter the ark, two by two of every creature with the breath of life." This emphasizes the preservation of life through the ark, as God instructed Noah to save pairs of all living creatures, ensuring the continuation of life on earth post-flood.

Theological Implications

The breath of life is a profound theological concept, symbolizing the life-giving power of God. It reflects the belief that life is a sacred gift from God, and all living creatures are sustained by His will. This divine breath is not merely a physical phenomenon but also carries spiritual significance, particularly in the context of human life, which is seen as possessing both physical and spiritual dimensions.

New Testament Reflections

While the New Testament does not explicitly use the phrase "breath of life," the concept is echoed in the understanding of life and spirit. For instance, in Acts 17:25 , Paul speaks of God as the one "who gives to all men life and breath and everything else." This reinforces the idea that life, in all its forms, is a gift from God, sustained by His providence.

Conclusion

The phrase "creatures with the breath of life" encapsulates a fundamental biblical truth about the origin and sanctity of life. It serves as a reminder of the intimate connection between the Creator and His creation, highlighting the divine source of life that animates all living beings.