The concept of hell in the Bible is multifaceted and has been interpreted in various ways throughout religious history. In Christianity, hell is often portrayed as a place of eternal punishment for the wicked. The term itself is derived from the Old English word "hel," which means a hidden place or the realm of the dead. The New Testament provides much of the biblical foundation for the Christian understanding of hell, primarily through the teachings of Jesus Christ and the writings of the apostles.

One key aspect of the biblical concept of hell is its association with judgment and the consequences of sin. In the Gospels, Jesus frequently speaks about hell in the context of moral accountability and the fate of those who reject God's righteousness. The idea is rooted in the belief that individuals will be judged based on their actions and faith during their earthly lives. This judgment determines whether one will experience eternal life in the presence of God or face eternal separation from Him in hell.