“And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death.” — Revelation 20:14 (KJV)
Introduction
The Bible does not present Hell as a myth, metaphor, or symbolic idea. It speaks of Hell as a real place of judgment, clearly and consistently described throughout Scripture. To understand the doctrine of Hell rightly, we must allow the Word of God—not human emotion or modern opinion—to define it. From Genesis to Revelation, the Bible reveals both the justice of God and His mercy, warning of judgment while offering salvation.
Hell in the Old Testament
In the Old Testament, the primary word translated as hell is Sheol. This term refers to the realm of the dead, the unseen world, and often carries the idea of judgment for the wicked. In the King James Bible, Sheol is translated as hell, grave, or pit, depending on the context.
Scripture makes clear that Sheol is not merely the physical grave, but a place associated with the fate of those who reject God:
“The wicked shall be turned into hell, and all the nations that forget God.” — Psalm 9:17 (KJV)
“If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there: if I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there.” — Psalm 139:8 (KJV)
These passages show that Hell is distinct from heaven and is connected to divine judgment, not rest or peace.
Hell in the New Testament
The New Testament gives greater clarity and detail concerning Hell. Three main terms are used:
1. Hades
Hades is the Greek equivalent of Sheol and refers to the unseen realm of the dead. It is a place of conscious awareness and torment for the wicked:
“And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom.” — Luke 16:23 (KJV)
2. Gehenna
Gehenna comes from the Valley of Hinnom, a place associated with fire and judgment. Jesus used this word to describe eternal punishment:
“But rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.” — Matthew 10:28 (KJV)
3. The Lake of Fire
The Lake of Fire is the final and eternal place of judgment. It is where Satan, death, Hades, and all unbelievers will ultimately be cast:
“And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death.” — Revelation 20:14 (KJV)
The Nature of Hell
The Bible uses strong language to describe Hell, not to exaggerate, but to warn. Scripture presents Hell as:
- A place of fire “Everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels.” — Matthew 25:41 (KJV)
- A place of darkness “Outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” — Matthew 25:30 (KJV)
- A place of torment “They have no rest day nor night.” — Revelation 14:11 (KJV)
- A place of eternal separation from God “Everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord.” — 2 Thessalonians 1:9 (KJV)
Hell is conscious, eternal, and irreversible. It is not temporary, nor does Scripture teach the annihilation of the soul.
Why Hell Exists
Hell was originally prepared for Satan and his angels, not for mankind:
“Prepared for the devil and his angels.” — Matthew 25:41 (KJV)
However, because God is holy and just, sin must be judged. God cannot ignore sin or compromise His righteousness. Those who reject God’s provision for salvation remain under judgment.
Yet Scripture also makes God’s heart clear:
“Not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.” — 2 Peter 3:9 (KJV)
The Escape from Hell
The reality of Hell is severe, but the message of the Bible does not end with judgment. God has provided a way of escape through Jesus Christ.
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son.” — John 3:16 (KJV)
“Shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.” — John 5:24 (KJV)
Through the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, sinners may be forgiven, redeemed, and granted eternal life with God.
Conclusion
According to the King James Bible, Hell is a literal place of judgment marked by fire, darkness, torment, and eternal separation from God. It is the rightful consequence of sin and the final destination of all who reject Christ. Yet God, in His mercy, has provided salvation through His Son.
Hell is real and eternal—but it does not have to be anyone’s destiny. Every soul faces a choice: remain in rebellion and face judgment, or repent and believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and receive everlasting life.
“And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.” — Revelation 20:15 (KJV)