Topical Bible: Hinnom: A Valley West and Southwest of Jerusalem

◄ Hinnom: A Valley West and Southwest of Jerusalem ►

Topical Encyclopedia

The Valley of Hinnom, often referred to simply as "Hinnom," is a geographical location of significant historical and theological importance in the biblical narrative. Situated to the west and southwest of Jerusalem, this valley is mentioned multiple times throughout the Scriptures and is associated with various events and practices that have shaped its reputation over time.

Biblical References and Historical Context

The Valley of Hinnom is first mentioned in the Old Testament as a boundary marker for the tribe of Judah (Joshua 15:8). It later became infamous for the idolatrous practices that took place there, particularly during the reigns of certain kings of Judah. The valley was the site of child sacrifices to the pagan god Molech, a practice that was strictly condemned by the prophets and the Law of Moses (Leviticus 18:21; Jeremiah 7:31).

King Ahaz and King Manasseh were notably involved in these abominable practices, leading to the valley's association with idolatry and apostasy (2 Chronicles 28:3; 2 Chronicles 33:6). The prophet Jeremiah denounced these acts, warning of divine judgment upon the people for their sins (Jeremiah 19:2-6).

Transformation and Symbolism

In response to these detestable practices, King Josiah, during his religious reforms, defiled the Valley of Hinnom to prevent further idolatrous activities (2 Kings 23:10). This act was part of a broader effort to restore the worship of Yahweh and eliminate pagan influences from the land.

Over time, the Valley of Hinnom became a symbol of divine judgment and punishment. The Hebrew term "Gehenna," derived from "Ge Hinnom" (Valley of Hinnom), came to represent a place of fiery torment and destruction. In the New Testament, Jesus used the term "Gehenna" to describe the final place of punishment for the wicked (Matthew 5:22; Mark 9:43).

Theological Significance

The Valley of Hinnom serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of turning away from God and engaging in idolatry. It underscores the seriousness with which God views sin and the lengths to which He will go to purify His people. The transformation of Hinnom from a place of idolatry to a symbol of judgment highlights the themes of repentance and divine justice that permeate the biblical narrative.

In Christian theology, the imagery of Gehenna as a place of eternal punishment serves to emphasize the reality of hell and the importance of faith in Jesus Christ for salvation. The Valley of Hinnom, therefore, stands as a testament to both the severity of God's judgment and the hope of redemption through Christ.

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Joshua 15:8
And the border went up by the valley of the son of Hinnom to the south side of the Jebusite; the same is Jerusalem: and the border went up to the top of the mountain that lies before the valley of Hinnom westward, which is at the end of the valley of the giants northward:
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Joshua 18:16
And the border came down to the end of the mountain that lies before the valley of the son of Hinnom, and which is in the valley of the giants on the north, and descended to the valley of Hinnom, to the side of Jebusi on the south, and descended to Enrogel,
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2 Kings 23:10
And he defiled Topheth, which is in the valley of the children of Hinnom, that no man might make his son or his daughter to pass through the fire to Molech.
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Nehemiah 11:30
Zanoah, Adullam, and in their villages, at Lachish, and the fields thereof, at Azekah, and in the villages thereof. And they dwelled from Beersheba to the valley of Hinnom.
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