Dust symbolizes the idea that humans are part of Creation—that is, they are made by God. Dust thus reflects both the human being’s dignity (as having been made by God) and fragility. God forms the first human being, Adam, out of the dust, or earth, of the ground and then breathes life into his nostrils. In fact, “Adam” means “earth,” reflecting the close relationship between the human being and the substance from which he is made. After Adam eats fruit from the forbidden tree, God curses Adam with death, telling him “you are dust, and to dust you shall return”—a reminder that, dependent on God, the human being is susceptible to dissolution and death.
Dust Quotes in Genesis
The LORD God said to the serpent,
“Because you have done this,
cursed are you among all animals
and among all wild creatures;
upon your belly you shall go,
and dust you shall eat
all the days of your life.
I will put enmity between you and the woman,
and between your offspring and hers;
he will strike your head,
and you will strike his heel.”
Dust Symbol Timeline in Genesis
