The Apostles’ Creed contains a line that has intrigued and puzzled Christians for centuries: “He descended into hell.” What does this mean? Where did Jesus go after His crucifixion but before His resurrection? This doctrine, often called the Descent into Hell, offers profound insights into Christ’s mission and its implications for salvation, victory over death, and hope for humanity.
The Apostles’ Creed: A Historical Anchor
The phrase “He descended into hell” originates from the Apostles’ Creed, a foundational statement of faith in Christianity. Thought to have developed between the 2nd and 4th centuries, the Creed served as a concise summary of Christian beliefs during a time when the Church was combating heresies and clarifying doctrine. Including the descent underscores the completeness of Jesus’ salvific work—His victory extended not only to the living but to the dead as well.
However, the interpretation of this phrase has varied across time and traditions. Understanding its meaning requires diving into the Bible and the teachings of the early Church.
What Happened Between the Cross and the Resurrection?
The Bible gives us glimpses into this mysterious event. When Jesus died, His body remained in the tomb, but His spirit was active. The Gospel of Luke records Jesus’ words to the thief on the cross: “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise” (Luke 23:43). Yet, the Apostle Peter later writes about Jesus proclaiming to “the spirits in prison” (1 Peter 3:19).
These passages suggest that Jesus descended into a spiritual realm after His death—a place sometimes called Hades or Sheol in the Bible. These terms refer to the realm of the dead, not necessarily a place of torment.
Clarifying “Hell”
The word hell in the Creed can be misleading for modern readers. In biblical terms, it refers to Hades (Greek) or Sheol (Hebrew)—the realm of the dead, a neutral place where souls awaited judgment or redemption. This differs from Gehenna, often associated with eternal punishment. Recognizing this distinction helps us understand that Jesus’ descent was not about enduring torment but about fulfilling His redemptive mission.
Theological Interpretations of the Descent
- Proclamation of Victory:
Many theologians believe Jesus’ descent was a triumphant proclamation of His victory over sin, death, and Satan. By entering the realm of the dead, Christ declared His authority over all creation, including those who had died before His earthly ministry. This aligns with Paul’s declaration: “O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?” (1 Corinthians 15:55). - Liberation of the Righteous Dead:
Another view is that Jesus freed the souls of the righteous who had been waiting for the fulfillment of God’s promise of salvation. Before Christ’s sacrifice, faithful individuals like Abraham and David could not yet enter heaven because the atonement for sin was incomplete. Jesus’ descent into Hades opened the gates of heaven for these souls (Ephesians 4:8-10). - Conquering Satan’s Dominion:
Early Christian writings often portray Jesus’ descent as a cosmic battle. By descending into hell, Christ metaphorically “stormed the gates” of Satan’s domain, taking the keys of death and Hades (Revelation 1:18). This act emphasizes Jesus’ complete authority and the ultimate defeat of evil.
Perspectives Across Christian Traditions
- Catholic View:
The Catholic Church teaches that Jesus descended to the Limbo of the Fathers (also called Abraham’s Bosom), where the souls of the righteous awaited redemption. This was not a place of torment but a state of waiting until Christ’s sacrifice opened the way to heaven. - Eastern Orthodox View:
In Orthodox theology, the descent is seen as Christ’s harrowing of Hades, where He broke the power of death and freed the righteous. Iconography often depicts Jesus pulling Adam and Eve out of their graves, symbolizing the universal scope of salvation. - Protestant View:
Protestant interpretations vary. Some see the descent as symbolic of Jesus’ suffering on the cross, where He bore the full weight of sin. Others emphasize His proclamation of victory to the dead.
Fulfillment of Old Testament Prophecies
The descent into hell is not a theological afterthought; it fulfills numerous Old Testament prophecies:
- “For you will not abandon my soul to Sheol, or let your holy one see corruption” (Psalm 16:10).
- “As for you also, because of the blood of my covenant with you, I will set your prisoners free from the waterless pit” (Zechariah 9:11).
These passages show that Jesus’ mission was anticipated in Scripture, reaffirming the unity of God’s plan for redemption.
Practical Lessons for Everyday Faith
- Trust in Jesus’ Power:
Jesus’ descent assures us that there is no place—no depth of despair, failure, or sin—that His love cannot reach. Whatever darkness you face, Christ has already conquered it. - Live with Eternal Perspective:
Christ’s victory over death transforms it into a doorway to eternal life. Let this truth guide your decisions and bring hope during life’s trials. - Proclaim His Victory:
Just as Jesus proclaimed His triumph in Hades, we are called to declare His victory in our lives. Share the good news of His power and love with those around you.
Reflective Questions for Readers
- How does knowing that Jesus descended into hell deepen your understanding of His love and sacrifice?
- In what areas of your life can you invite Christ to bring victory over darkness?
Scriptural References for Further Study:
- Luke 23:43 – Jesus’ promise to the thief on the cross.
- 1 Peter 3:18-20 – Jesus preaching to the spirits in prison.
- Ephesians 4:8-10 – Christ’s descent and ascension.
- Revelation 1:18 – Jesus holding the keys to death and Hades.
- 1 Corinthians 15:22-55 – Victory over death through Christ.
Conclusion
The doctrine of Jesus’ descent into hell is more than an obscure line in the Apostles’ Creed—it is a proclamation of hope, victory, and love. It assures us that no depth is beyond Christ’s reach and that His sacrifice brings life, even to the realm of the dead.
In His descent, we see the fullness of Christ’s mission, from redeeming the righteous of the past to offering eternal life to all who believe. May this truth inspire your faith, embolden your hope, and deepen your understanding of the Savior who has gone to the depths so you can rise with Him.
