The phrase "under the earth" appears in various contexts within the Bible, often symbolizing realms or entities that are distinct from the heavens and the earth. This term is frequently associated with the abode of the dead, the realm of the demonic, or the depths of creation. It is important to understand the biblical and theological implications of this phrase to grasp its significance in Scripture.

Biblical References:

1. Philippians 2:10 · "that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth," . This verse highlights the universal lordship of Jesus Christ, indicating that all creation, including those "under the earth," will acknowledge His authority. The phrase suggests a comprehensive scope of Christ's dominion, encompassing all spiritual and physical realms.

2. Revelation 5:3 · "But no one in heaven or on earth or under the earth was able to open the scroll or look inside it." . Here, "under the earth" is part of a triadic expression that emphasizes the inability of any creature, whether celestial, terrestrial, or subterranean, to unveil God's divine mysteries. This underscores the unique worthiness of Christ, the Lamb, to execute God's redemptive plan.

3. Exodus 20:4 · "You shall not make for yourself an idol in the form of anything in the heavens above, on the earth below, or in the waters beneath the earth." . In this commandment, the phrase "beneath the earth" refers to the waters under the earth, which were often associated with chaos and the unknown. It serves as a warning against idolatry, emphasizing the prohibition of creating images of any part of creation, including those realms unseen by human eyes.

Theological Implications:

The concept of "under the earth" is often linked to Sheol or Hades, the abode of the dead in Hebrew and Greek thought, respectively. In the Old Testament, Sheol is depicted as a shadowy place where the dead reside, awaiting resurrection or judgment. This understanding is reflected in passages like Job 26:5-6, where the dead tremble beneath the waters, and Sheol is laid bare before God.

In the New Testament, the term takes on additional dimensions, particularly in the context of Christ's victory over sin and death. The acknowledgment of Christ's lordship by those "under the earth" signifies His triumph over all spiritual forces, including demonic powers and the finality of death. This is further illustrated in passages like Ephesians 4:9, which speaks of Christ descending to the lower parts of the earth, often interpreted as His descent into Hades to proclaim victory.

Symbolism and Imagery:

The imagery of "under the earth" also conveys the idea of depth and hiddenness. It represents the mysterious and often feared aspects of existence that lie beyond human perception. In biblical cosmology, the earth is seen as a flat disc with the heavens above and the underworld below, reinforcing the notion of a structured universe governed by God's sovereign will.

In summary, "under the earth" in biblical literature serves as a powerful symbol of the unseen realms, the abode of the dead, and the comprehensive scope of Christ's authority. It challenges believers to recognize the full extent of God's dominion and the ultimate victory of Christ over all creation.