A common misconception holds that the Bible makes no mention of dinosaurs, placing these ancient giants firmly in the realm of modern paleontology rather than Scripture. In reality, however, the original Hebrew and Greek texts refer to colossal “dragons” and mighty beasts whose characteristics align remarkably well with what science today identifies as dinosaurs.
Daniel Maritz of DLM Christian Lifestyle unpacks this surprising overlap. With careful attention to language and context, Maritz demonstrates how modern translations have obscured references to creatures that ancient cultures knew well.
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Maritz begins by pointing out that “the word dinosaur… did not exist before the 1800s.” Coined in 1841 by Sir Richard Owen, dinosaur combines the Greek deinos (“terrible”) and sauros (“lizard”). Before then, people simply called these massive animals “dragons.” In the Old Testament, Maritz explains, the Hebrew term tannin is consistently rendered “dragon,” though many Bibles substitute phrases like “great sea creatures” or even footnote Behemoth as a hippopotamus, despite the clear detail that its “tail [is] like a cedar tree.” As Maritz observes, “These were real creatures, beasts, dragons,” not symbolic visions.
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The books of Job offer two vivid portraits. Behemoth, described with “bones like bronze, a tail like a cedar tree, limbs like bars of iron,” stands first among land beasts in strength and stature. Leviathan follows as a formidable sea monster whose “back is made of rows of shields” and who scoffs at swords, spears, and javelins. Maritz notes that natural defense mechanisms, such as the bombardier beetle’s explosive spray, suggest how ancient observers might have recorded fiery breath in marine reptiles or other prehistoric animals.
Beyond biblical text, Maritz highlights a wealth of historical testimony. Cultures around the globe produced cave drawings, carvings, and written records of encounters with dragon-like creatures. Even classical historians tell of armies slaying enormous serpents 100 feet long and shipping their skins back as trophies.
According to Maritz, “The fact remains there are many historical writings about human encounters with dragons,” pointing to a past when humans and dinosaurs walked side by side.
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When we read these passages with fresh eyes, apparent conflicts between science and Scripture fade. Instead, we see a consistent testimony: the same Creator who breathed life into Adam also fashioned beasts of colossal size and power.
James Lasher is staff writer for Charisma Media.
