The Valley of Hinnom, also known as Gehenna, is a geographical location with significant historical and theological implications in the biblical narrative. Situated to the south and southwest of Jerusalem, this valley is mentioned several times in the Old Testament and carries a legacy that extends into New Testament theology.

Old Testament References

The Valley of Hinnom first appears in the context of the tribal boundaries of Judah in Joshua 15:8 : "Then the border went up the Valley of Ben Hinnom to the southern slope of the Jebusite city (that is, Jerusalem), and then went up to the top of the hill west of the Valley of Hinnom, at the northern end of the Valley of Rephaim."

The valley gained notoriety as a site of idolatrous practices, particularly during the reigns of certain kings of Judah. It became infamous for the worship of the Canaanite god Molech, which involved child sacrifice. In 2 Kings 23:10 , King Josiah is noted for defiling Topheth in the Valley of Hinnom to put an end to these abominable practices: "He also desecrated Topheth in the Valley of Ben Hinnom, so that no one could sacrifice his son or daughter in the fire to Molech."

The prophet Jeremiah also condemned the practices in this valley, prophesying judgment upon the people for their idolatry. Jeremiah 7:31-32 states: "They have built the high places of Topheth in the Valley of Ben Hinnom to burn their sons and daughters in the fire—something I did not command, nor did it enter My mind. So behold, the days are coming, declares the LORD, when it will no longer be called Topheth or the Valley of Ben Hinnom, but the Valley of Slaughter."

New Testament and Theological Significance

In the New Testament, the Valley of Hinnom, referred to as Gehenna, takes on a metaphorical meaning associated with judgment and the afterlife. Jesus uses the term Gehenna to describe a place of final punishment for the wicked. In Matthew 10:28 , Jesus warns: "Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Instead, fear the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell (Gehenna)."

The imagery of Gehenna as a place of fiery judgment is rooted in the valley's historical association with fire and idolatry. It serves as a powerful symbol of divine retribution and the consequences of sin, emphasizing the seriousness of moral and spiritual choices.

Cultural and Historical Context

The Valley of Hinnom's transformation from a physical location of pagan worship to a symbol of eternal punishment reflects the broader biblical theme of God's judgment against sin and idolatry. Its historical context as a site of abomination underscores the severity of turning away from God's commandments.

Throughout biblical history, the Valley of Hinnom serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of forsaking the covenant with God. Its legacy in both the Old and New Testaments highlights the importance of faithfulness and the reality of divine justice.