Duden on "a life"
100: "What is designated by the word are stages of chromosomal organization, coded genetic information, or the morphology of tissues whose existence can be verified only under laboratory conditions. Referring to these terms, legitimate only for professional observers, as 'a life,' one gives them a status that transcends the parameters within which the observation can be verified. When lawmakers assume a mandate to protect life, they legislate a fact that cannot be testified to by the witness of the ordinary person"
and the concept may be newer than we think:
"Antiquity has no concept or term for substantive life. Bios means destiny, curriculum vitae. Zoe expresses the vitality and splendor of ensouled beings. Psyche can be used to translate the Hebrew word for blood and, occasionally, the soul." (102)
the Old Testament has ruah, "the blowing and weaving spirit of the Almighty"