Thomas B.
Thayer was a well-regarded Bible scholar in the 19 th century, who taught theology for decades..
Educated at Harvard, Thomas B.
Supporting this argument are images and stories of these ancient religions, which the author details.
While scriptural passages allude to Sheol\'s existence, there is no description that matches the popular idea of Hellfire - the idea is of Pagan origin, with polytheistic religions of Egypt, Greece and Rome the primary influence.
We learn that Moses, in bringing down the Ten Commandments, never alluded to Hell as a fiery deterrent to wrongdoers.
Thayer examines the Bible\'s allusions to Sheol, through the Old Testament and the New.
It became a popular topic for preachers seeking to frighten their audiences, while certain leaders used it as a justification for mass murder of heretics and non-believers.
Nevertheless the stark vividness of hellish imagery - of blazing Hellfire and unceasing torture for all eternity - was powerful.
Rather, it is a combination of embellishment of existing scriptural passages, and sheer invention.
The popular notion that hell is a permanent residence for those who have committed wrongdoing has no Biblical grounding.
Thayer investigates Eternal Hellfire as a punishment for deceased sinners, contrasting this idea to what actual, Biblical passages say about Sheol (Hell) in the Old and New Testaments.
Thomas B
