The term "Abyss" in biblical literature refers to a profound depth or bottomless pit, often associated with the abode of demonic spirits and a place of confinement for evil. The concept of the Abyss is primarily found in the New Testament, though it has roots in Old Testament imagery.

Old Testament Background

While the specific term "Abyss" is not used in the Old Testament, the concept is related to the Hebrew word "tehom," which means "deep" or "depths." This term is used in Genesis 1:2 to describe the primordial waters over which the Spirit of God hovered. The imagery of deep waters often symbolizes chaos and disorder, which God brings into order through creation.

New Testament References

1. Luke 8:31 · In the account of Jesus casting out the Legion of demons from a man, the demons beg Him not to send them into the Abyss: "And the demons kept begging Jesus not to order them to go into the Abyss" . This passage suggests that the Abyss is a place of torment and imprisonment for demonic beings.

2. Romans 10:7 · The Apostle Paul uses the term metaphorically when discussing the righteousness based on faith: "or, 'Who will descend into the Abyss?' (that is, to bring Christ up from the dead)" . Here, the Abyss is associated with the realm of the dead, emphasizing the power of Christ's resurrection.

3. Revelation 9:1-11 · The Abyss is vividly depicted in the apocalyptic visions of John. A star falls from heaven and is given the key to the Abyss, releasing a swarm of locusts with the power to torment those without the seal of God. The Abyss is described as a smoke-filled pit, and its opening brings darkness upon the earth. This imagery underscores the Abyss as a source of evil and chaos.

4. Revelation 11:7; 17:8 · The Beast that rises from the Abyss is mentioned as waging war against the two witnesses and as an entity that astonishes the inhabitants of the earth. The Abyss is portrayed as the origin of malevolent forces that oppose God's purposes.

5. Revelation 20:1-3 · In the eschatological vision, an angel descends from heaven with the key to the Abyss and chains Satan, casting him into the Abyss for a thousand years. This act signifies a temporary restraint of evil before the final judgment.

Theological Significance

The Abyss represents the antithesis of God's order and goodness, a place where evil is contained and from which it emerges to challenge divine authority. It is a realm of chaos, darkness, and punishment, contrasting with the light and life found in God's presence. The New Testament portrayal of the Abyss emphasizes the ultimate victory of Christ over evil, as He has authority over the Abyss and its inhabitants. The temporary nature of the Abyss's power, as seen in Revelation, assures believers of the eventual triumph of God's kingdom.