What does the Bible say about dinosaurs?

1. Summary of the Question

The question, “What does the Bible say about dinosaurs?” addresses the intersection of biblical interpretation and scientific discovery. While the Bible does not specifically mention “dinosaurs,” which is a modern term, it does reference large and mysterious creatures that could be interpreted as prehistoric animals. This answer will explore the biblical references to these creatures, how they fit into the biblical creation narrative, and how Christians can understand dinosaurs within the framework of biblical teachings.

2. Context and Background

To understand what the Bible might say about dinosaurs, it is crucial to consider the historical and cultural context of the biblical texts. The term “dinosaur” was coined in the 19th century, long after the Bible was written. However, the Bible, written in a pre-scientific era, describes various creatures that were known to ancient people, some of which are described with characteristics that have led some to speculate they could be dinosaurs.

The biblical creation account in Genesis presents a framework in which God created all living creatures, including “great sea creatures” and “every living thing that moves” on days five and six of the creation week (Genesis 1:20-25). In this context, any creatures that would later be categorized as dinosaurs would have been part of this creation. Furthermore, some passages in the Bible, such as those in the book of Job, describe large and powerful creatures like “Behemoth” and “Leviathan,” which have sparked debate among scholars and theologians about their identity.

3. Biblical Foundation (NASB 2020)

Several key scripture passages are often cited in discussions about dinosaurs in the Bible:

• Genesis 1:21, 24-25 (NASB 2020): “God created the great sea creatures and every living creature that moves, with which the waters swarmed after their kind, and every winged bird after its kind; and God saw that it was good… Then God said, ‘Let the earth bring forth living creatures after their kind: cattle and creeping things and beasts of the earth after their kind’; and it was so.” This passage establishes that all kinds of animals, whether land or sea creatures, were created by God. This would include any large or unique creatures like dinosaurs.
• Job 40:15-18 (NASB 2020): “Behold, Behemoth, which I made as well as you; he eats grass like an ox. Behold, his strength in his loins and his power in the muscles of his belly. He hangs his tail like a cedar; the tendons of his thighs are knit together. His bones are tubes of bronze; his limbs are like bars of iron.” The description of Behemoth as a massive, powerful creature with a tail like a cedar tree has led some to speculate it could be a description of a large, dinosaur-like animal, though others suggest it might be a hippopotamus or an elephant.
• Job 41:1, 14-15, 31 (NASB 2020): “Can you draw out Leviathan with a fishhook? Or press down his tongue with a cord? …Who can open the doors of his face? Around his teeth there is terror. His strong scales are his pride, shut up as with a tight seal… He makes the depths boil like a pot; he makes the sea like a jar of ointment.” Leviathan is described as a powerful sea creature with impenetrable scales and the ability to cause great turmoil in the waters. Some interpret this as a mythical sea dragon, while others consider it might have been a real animal, possibly now extinct.

These passages suggest that the Bible acknowledges the existence of large and mysterious creatures, though it does not specifically describe dinosaurs as understood in modern paleontology.

4. Addressing Other Perspectives

Different interpretations exist regarding the references to Behemoth and Leviathan. Some argue these passages are poetic descriptions of known animals like the hippopotamus, crocodile, or other large beasts familiar to the ancient Near Eastern world. Others believe these descriptions are of mythical creatures or symbolic representations of chaos and evil that God has dominion over.

A perspective that aligns with a literal understanding of Scripture might suggest that these creatures could indeed have been dinosaurs or similar creatures that lived alongside humans before becoming extinct. This view maintains that dinosaurs, like all creatures, were part of God’s creation, emphasizing God’s power and the diversity of His works.

5. Clarifying Misunderstandings

A common misconception is that the Bible’s silence on the term “dinosaurs” means it does not account for them or that they are incompatible with biblical teachings. However, the Bible’s focus is on the theological message of creation, fall, redemption, and restoration, not on providing a detailed account of every creature that ever existed. Another misunderstanding is assuming that the existence of dinosaurs contradicts the Bible. The Bible’s emphasis on God’s creative power includes all kinds of creatures, whether explicitly mentioned or not.

6. Practical Application and Relevance

For Christians today, understanding what the Bible says about dinosaurs encourages a deeper appreciation for the wonder and diversity of God’s creation. It also provides an opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogue with those who may question the compatibility of science and faith. By recognizing that the Bible does not necessarily contradict scientific discoveries but rather complements them, believers can strengthen their faith in God as the Creator of all things.

Christians should also approach discussions about dinosaurs with humility and openness, recognizing the limits of human understanding and the importance of interpreting Scripture within its intended context. Engaging with scientific evidence in a way that honors God and respects His Word can lead to a richer and more robust faith.

7. Encouragement and Conclusion

The Bible teaches that God is the Creator of all things, including the vast diversity of creatures that have existed throughout history. While it does not explicitly mention dinosaurs, it provides a framework for understanding them as part of God’s good creation. Believers are encouraged to trust in God’s wisdom and sovereignty over all things, appreciating the mysteries of His creation while holding firm to the truth of His Word. By loving what God loves and seeking to understand His creation more fully, Christians can grow in their faith and witness to His greatness, grace, and glory.