Dichotomy vs. Trichotomy: Are We Body and Soul... or Body, Soul, and Spirit?
- Wired for Christ
- Oct 16, 2024
- 3 min read

Dichotomy vs TrichotomyWired for Christ
In this article we will dive into an important question: Is man a two-part being, consisting of body and soul, or a three-part being, made up of body, soul, and spirit?
First, let’s look at the idea that we are a two-part being, also known as dichotomy (body and soul).
This view says that we are made of material and nonmaterial parts.
Our bodies are material; they are physical and can be seen. Our souls, on the other hand, are nonmaterial; they are spiritual and cannot be seen.
Some believe that because the spirit is also nonmaterial, it should be considered part of the soul.
Supporters of this view point to the Bible, where the terms "soul" and "spirit" are often used in similar ways.
For example, in Luke 1:46-47, Mary says, “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior.” This suggests that, for her, the soul and spirit were closely related.
Now, let’s consider the idea that we are a three-part being, known as trichotomy (body, soul, and spirit).
Advocates of this view argue that just because the terms are sometimes used interchangeably doesn’t mean they mean the same thing.
They point to verses in the New Testament that show a clear distinction between body and soul.
For example, 1 Thessalonians 5:23, Paul prays for the whole person: “May your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless.” This indicates that there’s more to us than just body and soul.
Furthermore, the Hebrew word nephesh, which often translates to "soul," is used to describe both humans and animals. This means animals have souls, but they do not have spirits.
Therefore, if humans are made in the image of God, we must have something greater: a spirit that connects us to Him.
Another strong case for trichotomy is Hebrews 4:12, which clearly distinguishes between soul and spirit, suggesting that they are not interchangeable.

Lastly, there is the idea of three levels of consciousness.
The idea of three levels of consciousness supports trichotomy.
We have self-consciousness through our souls, awareness of the world through our bodies, and God-consciousness through our spirits.
This helps explain our unique ability to connect with God.
So, what should we believe?
Dr. Merrill F. Unger, a Hebrew scholar, suggests that while “soul” and “spirit” are often used interchangeably, they are not always the same.
He says that the soul can be lost, but not the spirit.
In many cases, the Bible shows us a dichotomous view, but it also allows for a trichotomous understanding.
Caution: Avoid New Age Misinterpretations

When discussing this topic, it is important to exercise caution and avoid aligning it with New Age or Eastern religious beliefs, which may reinterpret these ideas in ways that deviate from Biblical teachings.
In many New Age philosophies, the distinction between body, soul, and spirit can lead to practices that emphasize spiritual enlightenment or self-realization through methods like meditation, chakra balancing, or astral projection, often detaching the spiritual aspect from a relationship with God through Jesus Christ.
Therefore, it is crucial for Christians to place this discussions in a Biblical framework, recognizing that the Christian understanding of spirit, soul, and body is meant to reflect our relationship with God, rather than the self-centered spiritual pursuits often found in New Age or Eastern thought.
Conclusion
This discussion centers on a non-essential Biblical doctrine that shouldn't be a point of dogmatism for Christians.
Whether we see ourselves as two-part or three-part beings, we are wonderfully made in God’s image, created to worship and connect with Him, which can only happen through Jesus Christ (John 3:16; John 14:6).
If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved from the eternal punishment for sin upon death and given a new identity in Christ right now. Amen.
May the grace of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ be with you.
Scripture references:
Trichotomy (body, soul, and spirit):
1 Thessalonians 5:23; Hebrews 4:12; Genesis 2:7; Luke 1:46-47; Romans 8:16
Dichotomy (body and soul):
Matthew 10:28; James 2:26; Ecclesiastes 12:7; Genesis 35:18; Luke 23:46
Comments