Life and Relationships

Is the Soul Immortal?

Scripture does not teach that human beings possess inherent immortality. Instead, immortality is presented as something God gives to the redeemed at the resurrection.

Published 2026-09-13 · Updated 2026-09-27

Written and reviewed by the Word Oasis Editorial Team. Read our editorial policy.

0 views
State of the Dead

Biblical explanation

The Bible's first warning concerning death involved the claim that humans would not die. In , the serpent told Eve, “Ye shall not surely die.” Scripture consistently teaches that immortality belongs uniquely to God in Himself. describes God as the One “who only hath immortality.” Paul says that mortal human beings must “put on immortality” at the resurrection (). This means immortality is not an automatic possession of every human being. says, “the soul that sinneth, it shall die.” Jesus likewise said that God can “destroy both soul and body in hell” (). The biblical hope is therefore not that an immortal soul naturally survives death. It is that God will resurrect His people and give them immortality. The Bible uses the word “immortal” in a very specific way. It does not describe every human soul as inherently immortal. It promises immortality to those who receive eternal life from God.

In brief

The Bible's first warning concerning death involved the claim that humans would not die.

Bible references

Go deeper into this topic What Really Happens After Death? Start the study

Editorial note

This answer is written and reviewed by the Word Oasis Editorial Team, and is presented with supporting references so you can examine each passage in context. If you notice an error or unclear statement, please suggest a correction.