All word studies
Hell in the Bible
The KJV uses 'hell' for several different words. Sorting them out clarifies what Scripture actually teaches about death, judgment, and eternal punishment.
Greek & Hebrew words
Greek (New Testament)
Hebrew (Old Testament)
Key KJV verses
All verses →Revelation 20:14
“And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death.”Read in context
2 Peter 2:9
“The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptations, and to reserve the unjust unto the day of judgment to be punished.”Read in context
Sheol and Hades
Sheol (H7585) and hades (G86) name the realm of the dead — the grave. They are intermediate, not final.
Gehenna and the lake of fire
Gehenna (G1067) is Jesus' word for final punishment, drawing on the Valley of Hinnom outside Jerusalem. Revelation 20 calls this the lake of fire — the second death.
Frequently asked questions
Are there different words for hell in the Bible?
Yes. The KJV translates sheol, hades, gehenna, and (once) tartaroō as 'hell.' Sheol and hades refer to the grave; gehenna and the lake of fire refer to final judgment.
Is hell eternal?
Jesus describes it as unquenchable fire (Mark 9:43) and everlasting punishment (Matthew 25:46). Revelation 20:14 calls it the second death.