Trichotomy vs. dichotomy of man—which view is correct?

Answer

The Bible teaches that humanity possesses a physical body, a soul, and a spirit. Concerning how these components of human nature interconnect and relate to each other, there are four main theories. Two perspectives, anthropological monism and anthropological hylomorphism, primarily address how the three aspects of humanity merge to constitute human nature. The other two frameworks, dichotomy (anthropological dualism) and trichotomy, focus on distinguishing between the human soul and human spirit. The differentiation between the material (physical) and immaterial (spiritual) aspects of human nature is clear. However, discerning between the two immaterial aspects of human nature is more challenging.

While certain Bible verses use the terms soul and spirit interchangeably (Matthew 10:28;Luke 1:46–47;1 Corinthians 5:3;1 Corinthians 7:34), other biblical passages do not equate the soul and the spirit as identical entities. Some verses even suggest a distinction between the soul and spirit (Romans 8:16;1 Thessalonians 5:23;Hebrews 4:12). Hebrews 4:12 declares, “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit.” This verse conveys two key points: (1) there exists a division between the soul and spirit, and (2) this division is only discernible to God. Considering these verses, neither the dichotomous nor trichotomous interpretations can be definitively proven. Does the immaterial aspect of human nature encompass a soul and a spirit? Yes. Are the soul and spirit completely unified and inseparable (dichotomy) or closely connected yet distinct

Is human nature a trichotomy? It’s unclear.

Those who believe in the trichotomy of human nature typically hold the following beliefs: the physical body connects us to the physical world, the soul represents our essence, and the spirit is the link to God. This explains why the unsaved are considered spiritually dead (Ephesians 2:1;Colossians 2:13), even though they are physically and emotionally alive. On the other hand, proponents of the dichotomy of human nature share the same view of the body but see the spirit as the part of the soul that connects with God. Therefore, the debate between dichotomy and trichotomy revolves around whether the soul and spirit are distinct components of the immaterial human nature or if the spirit is simply a part of the soul, with the soul encompassing the entire immaterial aspect of human nature.

Which perspective is correct: trichotomy or dichotomy of man? It appears imprudent to be dogmatic about it. Both theories have biblical support, and neither interpretation is heretical. This may be an issue beyond our finite human comprehension. What we can affirm is that human nature consists of a body, a soul, and a spirit. Whether the soul and spirit are unified or distinct is not explicitly clarified in God’s Word. Regardless of whether you adhere to dichotomy or trichotomy, present your body as a living sacrifice “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.”, (Romans 12:1), thank God for saving your soul “receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls.”, (1 Peter 1:9), and worship God in spirit and truth (John 4:23-24).