English

Etymology

Thought to be named after the Valley of Hinnom outside Jerusalem, which was constantly filled with the waste of the city, which was then burnt. Heinous deeds are also associated with this valley, as during the time when Jerusalem was ruled by non-Jews (referred to in scriptures simply as 'pagans') child sacrifice was practiced there.

Noun

1. one of various hells in Abrahamic religions, being the hell into which sinners are cast after judgment for eternal suffering
2. depending on interpretation of religious texts, one of various names for just one hell
3. a place of suffering and misery

Quotations

• Matthew 23:33 - "Ye serpents, ye generation of vipers, how can ye escape the damnation of Gehenna?”