Then the oldest of the men, Reb Mordke, begins to lecture on the soul. It is in effect in three parts, he says. The lowest part—the hungering part, the desiring part, the part that gets cold—that is nefesh. That part animals have, too. “Soma,” says Moliwda. “The higher part, that’s the spirit, ruah. That part animates our thoughts, makes us become good people.” “Psyche,” throws in Moliwda. “While the third part, the very highest part—that’s neshama.” “Pneuma!” Moliwda exclaims. “What a fine discovery for me!”
