Give Up the Ghost
For years, I knew only one meaning for give up the ghost. However, according to The Free Dictionary, the expression has at least three. All three mean an end.
To give up the ghost means to die.
This was the definition I knew. Other death idioms include:
The Free Dictionary further explains, “The ghost here is the soul … separated from the body upon death.”
To give up the ghost also means something stops working.
No physical possession lasts forever. All eventually wear out. Therefore, we must keep buying:
- Appliances
- Cars
- Phones
To give up the ghost also means to quit trying.
We cancel plans we think will fail. This may include:
- Work
- Trips
- Special events
Although our bodies die, our souls can soar!
We choose our destination for this life and life after we give up the ghost. If we accept Jesus as Savior and Lord, we have the promise of an everlasting home in heaven.
“Man dieth, and wasteth away: yea, man giveth up the ghost, and where is he?” (Job 14:10 KJV).
Thanks to Bobbie Smith Bryant for the suggestion.
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At the end of the day means our final conclusion.