Life Definition
To understand the meaning of life, we must begin with the biblical definition and origin of life itself. Life is not merely the physical animation of the body or the ability to breathe and move; rather, according to Scripture, life is a sacred gift from God, both physical and spiritual in nature.
In terms of etymology, the Bible uses distinct terms in Hebrew and Greek to describe life, each revealing a rich and layered understanding of what life is:
- Hebrew: Chayyim (חַיִּים)
This is the primary Hebrew word for “life” in the Old Testament. It is plural in form, suggesting the fullness or multiplicity of life, possibly reflecting both the physical and spiritual dimensions. It is used to describe living creatures, longevity, vitality, and God's life-giving power.
“And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life (chayyim); and man became a living being.” - Genesis 2:7 (NKJV)
- Greek: Zōē (ζωή)
In the New Testament, zōē refers to life in its highest sense, life as God has it, which becomes a gift to believers in Christ. It contrasts with another Greek word, bios, which refers to physical or worldly life.
“In Him was life (zōē), and the life was the light of men.” - John 1:4 (NKJV)
This zōē life is eternal, spiritual, and comes only through a relationship with God. It is the kind of life Jesus came to give:
“I have come that they may have life (zōē), and that they may have it more abundantly.” - John 10:10 (NKJV)
Why We Are Here According to the Bible
The Bible teaches that we were created by God on purpose and for a purpose. We are not accidents of nature or random beings. Instead, our origin is divine:
“Everyone who is called by My name,
Whom I have created for My glory;
I have formed him, yes, I have made him.” - Isaiah 43:7 (NKJV):
We are here to glorify God, enjoy a relationship with Him, and live according to His will. God's design for mankind was fellowship, stewardship over creation, and obedience from the heart.
“Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter:
Fear God and keep His commandments,
For this is man’s all.” - Ecclesiastes 12:13 (NKJV)
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What is the Meaning of Life?
The Bible teaches that life’s true meaning is not found in self-fulfillment, material wealth, or human achievement, but in a relationship with the Creator. God has revealed through Scripture that the purpose of our existence is to know Him, glorify Him, and enjoy Him forever.
1. To Know God
At the heart of life’s meaning is a personal and intimate relationship with God. We were created to walk with Him, just as Adam and Eve did in the garden before the fall. Knowing God is not merely an intellectual acknowledgment but a deep, experiential relationship marked by reverence, obedience, and love (John 17:3, NKJV)
The knowledge of God is the foundation for every other aspect of meaning and purpose. Without it, life becomes fragmented and empty.
2. To Glorify God
The Scriptures are clear that we were created for God’s glory. Our lives are meant to reflect His character and proclaim His greatness. Everything we do, our work, relationships, worship, and service, should ultimately point back to Him (Isaiah 43:7 NKJV).
To glorify God means to live in a way that honors Him, submits to His authority, and reflects His righteousness.
3. To Enjoy Fellowship with God Forever
God did not create humanity to be distant from Him. He desires fellowship with us, one that is personal, eternal, and life-giving. This fellowship was broken by sin but restored through Christ’s redeeming work on the cross (Psalm 16:11, NKJV).
Living in communion with God both now and in eternity is central to life’s meaning. It is only in His presence that we find lasting joy, peace, and purpose.
4. To Be Conformed to the Image of Christ
The New Testament reveals that the believer’s life is a journey of transformation into the likeness of Jesus Christ. This process—called sanctification—is part of God's purpose for us (Romans 8:29, NKJV).
We find meaning in life as we grow in godliness, bearing spiritual fruit (Galatians 5:22–23), and living lives that reflect Christ’s character to the world.
5. To Fulfill God’s Will and Advance His Kingdom
God has given every person gifts, talents, and a calling to be used in service to Him and others. Life is meaningful when it is lived on mission—when we actively participate in God's redemptive work in the world by loving others, making disciples, and standing as lights in a dark world (Micah 6:8 NKJV).
Living for God's kingdom gives eternal significance to even the simplest actions of daily life.
This purpose is unshakable, unchanging, and eternally satisfying. The world may offer countless answers, but only Scripture gives the truth that satisfies the soul and brings peace in every season.
The “Why” That Guides Everything
Why do we ask this question in the first place? Human beings are meaning-makers.
We’re hardwired to look for patterns and purposes. It’s why ancient civilizations looked at stars and saw stories. It’s why philosophers and theologians debate the purpose of life endlessly. And it’s why we sometimes wake up at 3 a.m. with a pit in our stomach wondering, what’s the point of all this?
It boils down to a deep human desire: we want our lives to matter. But mattering doesn’t come from finding meaning, but from creating it.
