IS CHRISTIAN HELL ROOTED IN JEWISH GEHINNOM? A HISTORICAL AND THEOLOGICAL INVESTIGATION

Abstract

This paper investigates the historical and theological relationship between Jewish Gehinnom and the Christian doctrine of hell. The study explores whether Christian understandings of eternal punishment originated from the Jewish concept of Gehinnom or developed independently through later theological influences. Beginning with the Old Testament background of the Valley of Hinnom (Ge-Hinnom), the research traces its transformation from a geographical location associated with idolatry and divine judgment into an eschatological symbol of punishment in Second Temple Jewish literature. Particular attention is given to apocalyptic writings, rabbinic traditions, and the teachings of Jesus Christ in the New Testament, where the term Gehenna becomes central to discussions of judgment and the afterlife. The paper further examines how early Christianity inherited Jewish eschatological concepts while reshaping them through Hellenistic influences and patristic theology. It highlights the similarities and differences between Jewish Gehinnom and Christian hell concerning duration, purpose, location, and theological interpretation. While Jewish traditions often viewed Gehinnom as temporary and purificatory, Christian theology increasingly emphasized eternal punishment and separation from God. Through historical, biblical, and theological analysis, the study argues that Christian hell is substantially rooted in Jewish Gehinnom but evolved into a more systematized doctrine within Christian thought. The research contributes to broader discussions on eschatology, divine justice, and the development of afterlife beliefs in Judeo-Christian tradition.