The Greek word géenna, represented by G1067, is of Hebrew origin and refers to the valley of Hinnom. It appears 12 times in 12 unique verses in the Bible. Figuratively, it is used as a name for the place or state of everlasting punishment, commonly translated as hell.
In scripture, G1067 is used to convey the severity of divine judgment. Jesus warns to fear God, who is able G1410 to destroy G622 both soul G5590 and body G4983 in hell Matthew 10:28. The term is presented as the final consequence for sin, with Jesus stating that it is better G2570 to cut off an offending hand or foot than for the whole G3650 body G4983 to be cast into hell (Matthew 5:30, Mark 9:45). It is also described as the source of defilement, as the tongue G1100 is a fire that is "set on fire of hell" James 3:6.
Several related words provide a fuller picture of the concept of géenna:
- G4442 pŷr (fire): This word is frequently paired with géenna, as in "hell fire" (Matthew 5:22, Matthew 18:9, Mark 9:47), emphasizing the destructive nature of this place of punishment.
- G906 bállō (to throw): This verb is consistently used to describe the fate of the unrighteous, who are to be cast G906 into hell (Matthew 5:29, Mark 9:47). This highlights the forcible and judgmental action involved.
- G622 apóllymi (to destroy fully): This defines the ultimate outcome for those in hell, where God has the ability to destroy G622 both soul and body Matthew 10:28.
- G762 asbestos (unquenchable): This term describes the perpetual nature of the fire associated with hell, "the fire that never shall be quenched" G762, indicating an unending state (Mark 9:43, Mark 9:45).
The theological weight of G1067 is a stark warning of final judgment.
- A Place of Final Destruction: Géenna is presented as the ultimate end for the unrighteous, where God exercises his power G1849 to destroy G622 a person completely, both soul G5590 and body G4983 (Matthew 10:28, Luke 12:5).
- The Consequence of Sin: Scripture warns that certain actions and attitudes place a person in danger G1777 of hell fire Matthew 5:22. Jesus challenges the scribes G1122 and Pharisees G5330, calling them a generation G1081 of vipers G2191 and asking how they can escape its damnation Matthew 23:33.
- Perpetual Punishment: The imagery of unquenchable fire G762 associated with hell signifies a permanent and irreversible state of punishment, from which there is no escape Mark 9:43-45.
In summary, G1067 transforms a literal place, the valley of Hinnom, into a powerful symbol of eternal judgment. It represents the final and complete punishment for sin, a place of destruction characterized by unquenchable fire. The word géenna serves as one of the most sobering warnings in the Bible regarding the consequences of unrighteousness and the reality of divine judgment.
TRV