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H11 · Hebrew · Old Testament
אֲבַדּוֹן
Abaddon
Noun, masculine proper
The place of destruction; the abyss of the dead

Definition

The Hebrew proper noun Abaddon (H11) refers to the realm of the dead, specifically understood as the deepest chamber of destruction beneath Sheol. While H7 uses the same word as an abstract noun (destruction as a concept), H11 treats it as a named place — the underworld dwelling of the perished.

The word appears to function as a proper place name in certain contexts, personifying the region of ruin the way "Death" and "Hades" are personified in prophetic and apocalyptic literature. It shares its root with abad (H4), the verb meaning to perish or be destroyed.

Usage & Theological Significance

In Job and Proverbs, Abaddon is consistently paired with Sheol or Death, forming a poetic expression of the full extent of the underworld. Theologically, the biblical use of Abaddon serves to establish God's comprehensive sovereignty: not even the deepest place of ruin is hidden from Him (Job 26:6).

The concept reaches its New Testament apex in Revelation 9:11, where the Greek transliteration Apollyon (Destroyer) is given as the Greek equivalent of Abaddon — the name of the angel ruling the bottomless pit. This apocalyptic usage connects Hebrew wisdom literature's dark imagery to the final cosmic conflict. Ultimately, Christ's resurrection declares victory over Abaddon — the grave could not hold Him.

Key Bible Verses

Job 26:6 Death is naked before God; Abaddon lies uncovered — nothing is hidden from the eyes of the Almighty.
Proverbs 15:11 Abaddon and Death lie open before the LORD — how much more do human hearts!
Revelation 9:11 They had as king over them the angel of the Abyss, whose name in Hebrew is Abaddon and in Greek is Apollyon (Destroyer).
Job 28:22 Destruction and Death say, "Only a rumor of wisdom has reached our ears."
Psalm 88:11 Is your love declared in the grave, your faithfulness in Abaddon?

Related Words

External Resources

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