Hastings' Dictionary of the Bible (1898)
SPIR'IT. Both in Greek and Hebrew the word for this implies a "blowing" or "breathing;" its primary sense is "wind." In 2 Thess 2:8 it is used for breath, in Eccl 8:8 for the vital principle; while in other places it denotes the soul. Angels, both good and bad, souls without bodies, are thus designated. Matt 14:26; Luke 24:39. Metaphorically, the tendency or inclination is similarly called; hence we have a spirit of grace and of supplication,
Zech 12:10, a spirit of infirmity. Luke 13:11, etc. The Holy Spirit or Holy Ghost is the third Person of the Holy Trinity, of one essence or nature with the Father and the Son, yet distinct from them. He is the Author of regeneration and sanctification. He applies the work of redemption to us, and makes us partakers of all the benefits of Christ, of his righteousness, life, and death. He is our Advocate, who pleads our cause, who strengthens and
comforts us and prepares us for glory in heaven. Matt 1:18, Ruth 4:20; Matt 28:19; John 1:33; Mark 14:26; John 16:7-8; John 20:22; Acts 2:4; Rom 5:5; 2 Cor 13:14; 1 Thess 4:8. Our English Version uses, in most passages, the term Holy Ghost; in four passages, Holy Spirit, which is better.