Did Jesus go to hell?

In the Apostles’ Creed one phrase that often sparks curiosity and theological discussion is “He descended into hell” or, in the version we’re using, “He descended to the dead.” This phrase, nestled between Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection, carries profound theological significance.

The phrase “descended into hell” has its roots in early Christian writings and creeds. The term “hell” in this context is derived from the Greek word “Hades” and the Hebrew word “Sheol,” both referring to the realm of the dead rather than the place of eternal punishment commonly associated with the word “hell” today.

In the Reformed tradition, this phrase is often interpreted metaphorically rather than literally. For example, John Calvin, a principal figure in the Reformation, argued that “descended into hell” signifies Jesus enduring the wrath and judgment of God on the cross. Calvin believed this phrase encapsulates the intense suffering and spiritual torment Jesus experienced as he bore the sins of humanity. For Calvin, it was on the cross that Jesus faced the ultimate separation from God, which is the essence of hell.

The Westminster Larger Catechism, a key document in Reformed theology, explains that “he descended into hell” means Jesus was buried and remained in the state of death until the third day. It emphasizes that Jesus truly experienced death and lay in the grave, affirming the reality of his death and the completeness of his sacrifice.

Other theologians view the phrase as symbolizing Christ’s victory over sin and death thereby highlighting the completeness of Jesus’ sacrifice and his triumph over the powers of hell, emphasizing that through his death and resurrection, Jesus conquered death and the grave.

The phrase “descended to the dead” is often used in modern versions of the Apostles’ Creed to avoid the confusion associated with the word “hell.” This wording underscores that Jesus truly experienced death and entered the realm of the dead. It affirms that Jesus’ death was real and complete, and that he fully participated in the human experience of death.

As we read and recite the Apostles Creed we need to be mindful of this important phrase, “he descended to the dead” because if this were not true, Jesus could not be said to have conquered death! By descending to the dead, Jesus is seen as having fully experienced human death and then overcoming it through his resurrection. This highlights his victory over death and the grave, offering hope of eternal life to believers.

Whether interpreted metaphorically or symbolically, it underscores the profound truth that Jesus fully entered into the human condition, even unto death, to bring salvation and hope to all.

If you would like to embrace this salvation and have the hope promised to all believers, read our post, How Can I Become A Christian?

The Apostles Creed

I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth.
I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit
and born of the Virgin Mary.
He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried.
He descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again to judge the living and the dead.
I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.