Mortality, the state of being subject to death, is a fundamental aspect of human existence as presented in the Bible. From the creation narrative in Genesis to the eschatological visions in Revelation, Scripture consistently underscores the transient nature of human life and the necessity of reliance on God.

Biblical Foundations of Mortality

The concept of mortality is introduced in Genesis, where God forms man from the dust of the ground (Genesis 2:7). The fall of man, as described in Genesis 3, marks the entrance of sin into the world, bringing with it the inevitability of physical death. God declares to Adam, "For dust you are, and to dust you shall return" (Genesis 3:19), establishing the reality of human mortality.

Throughout the Old Testament, the brevity of life is a recurring theme. The psalmist reflects, "The days of our years are seventy—eighty if we are strong—yet their pride is but labor and sorrow, for they quickly pass, and we fly away" (Psalm 90:10). This acknowledgment of life's fleeting nature serves as a reminder of human limitations and the need for divine guidance.

Dependence on God

In light of human mortality, the Bible emphasizes the importance of dependence on God. The wisdom literature, particularly the Psalms and Proverbs, frequently highlights the futility of relying on human strength and understanding. Proverbs 3:5-6 advises, "Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight" .

The prophets also call for reliance on God, often contrasting the weakness of human efforts with the strength and faithfulness of the Lord. Isaiah 40:31 promises, "But those who wait upon the LORD will renew their strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not faint" .

New Testament Perspectives

The New Testament continues to affirm human mortality while offering hope through Jesus Christ. The Apostle Paul writes, "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord" (Romans 6:23). This verse encapsulates the Christian belief that while physical death is a consequence of sin, spiritual life is available through faith in Christ.

Jesus Himself teaches about the necessity of dependence on God, as seen in the Sermon on the Mount. He instructs His followers not to worry about their lives, emphasizing God's provision: "But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you" (Matthew 6:33).

Eschatological Hope

The Bible concludes with the promise of a future where mortality is overcome. Revelation 21:4 offers a vision of the new creation: "He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the former things have passed away" . This eschatological hope reinforces the Christian belief in the ultimate victory over death through God's redemptive plan.

In summary, the Bible presents mortality as an inherent aspect of human life, resulting from the fall, and underscores the necessity of dependence on God for both temporal and eternal sustenance. Through faith in Jesus Christ, believers are assured of eternal life, transcending the limitations of earthly existence.