Introduction The Apostles’ Creed summarizes Jesus’ path of humiliation in three step: “He suffered, died, and was buried;” then it adds: “he descended into hell.” This statement raises questions. When did this happen? Where exactly did Jesus go? These are not easy questions. The “descent into hell” is the most puzzling article in the Apostle’s … Continue reading Jesus went down into hell (LD 16, q&a 44)
Tag: descent into hell
Biblical words for “hell”
In older Bible versions, the word “hell” occurs more often than in modern versions. The reason is simply that the original text uses different words, with at least two distinct meanings. Sheol (OT Hebrew). The cords of Sheol coiled around me; the snares of death confronted me. (Ps. 18:5) Sheol is the realm of the … Continue reading Biblical words for “hell”
The meaning of “hell”
The idea of hell is unpopular. Modern people, even many modern Christians, think it rather backward to believe in a place of eternal punishment. It’s medieval fearmongering, they say, but unfitting for the loving God we encounter in the Bible. It is true that a certain depiction of hell was popularized in the late Middle … Continue reading The meaning of “hell”