What Does the Bible Say About Losing a Loved One?

The Bible addresses losing a loved one across both Old and New Testaments. These verses are organized by biblical era — from the patriarchs to the apostles — letting Scripture speak for itself.

9 verses·2 eras·3 promises

Exile (~586 BC)

Yahweh appeared of old to me, [saying], Yes, I have loved you with an everlasting love: therefore with loving kindness have I drawn you.
Jeremiah 31:3· YahwehPromise

Life of Jesus (~30 AD)

For God so loved the world, that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish, but have eternal life.
John 3:16· JesusPromise
A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, just like I have loved you; that you also love one another.
Therefore I tell you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven, for she loved much. But to whom little is forgiven, the same loves little."
Luke 7:47· JesusPromise
and the Holy Spirit descended in a bodily form as a dove on him; and a voice came out of the sky, saying "You are my beloved Son. In you I am well pleased."
While he was still speaking, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them. Behold, a voice came out of the cloud, saying, "This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Listen to him."
Behold, a voice out of the heavens said, "This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased."
A voice came out of the cloud, saying, "This is my beloved Son. Listen to him!"
Even as the Father has loved me, I also have loved you. Remain in my love.

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