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Hellfire Deconstructed: An In-Depth Study of the Bible Verses About Hell
The chapters in this book are as
Chapter #1: The Philology of "Hell" (Sheol, Hades, Gehenna, Tartarus)
Chapter #2: A Summary of Hell Views in Modern Christianity
Chapter #3: Hell in the Torah
Chapter #4: Hell in the Prophets
Chapter #5: "To be thrown into Gehenna"
Chapter #6: 'Eternal' Punishment
Chapter #7: The Sheep and Goats
Chapter #8: Outer Darkness, Weeping and Gnashing of Teeth
Chapter #9: Lazarus and the Rich Man
Chapter #10: "Unquenchable Fire"
Chapter #11: "Born Again" to Avoid Hellfire?
Chapter #12: "Away from me, you evildoers!"
Chapter #13: "Narrow Gates" That Lead Where?
Chapter #14: The "Gates of Hell"
Chapter #15: Fear Whom?
Chapter #16: Hell in the Book of Acts
Chapter #17: Racing for What?
Chapter #18: Everlasting Destruction
Chapter #19: Tartarus
Chapter #20: Jude
Chapter #21: The Book of Life
Chapter #22: The Lake of Fire, Sulfur, and Smoke (Revelation)
Why is it that so many Christians read as metaphors "The Whore of Babylon" (Revelation 17:5), "Pluck out your eye" (Matthew 5:29), "Strain a gnat, swallow a camel" (Matthew 23:24), "Salt of the Earth" (Matthew 5:13), "Living Stones" (1 Peter 2:5), "A Thorn in the Flesh" (2 Corinthians 12:7), "The Lamb of God" (John 1:29), etc. Yet they insist on reading these "The Lake of Fire" (Revelation 20:14-15), "Unquenchable Fire" (Matthew 3:12), "Weeping and Gnashing of Teeth" (Matthew 8:12), "Worm That Never Dies" (Mark 9:48), "Furnace of Fire" (Matthew 13:42), "Outer Darkness" (Matthew 22:13), "Fire and Brimstone" (Revelation 21:8). The answer, for the most part, is that they don’t fully grasp the original meaning of these Jewish symbols within their historical and cultural context.
While my 340-page book, A Jewish Perspective on a Christian Doctrine, has received tremendous reviews, I understand that not everyone has the time to read such a lengthy work. So, if you’re looking for answers, this new, concise, standalone book focuses on the "hellfire verses" in the Bible, examining them within their original Jewish context. This small book is an excerpt (Part III) from my 2024 book on Hell, created especially for those with limited time!
In this short 140-page book (large font), we will journey through Bible verses that Fundamentalists believe reference the Eternal Conscious Torment view of hell (aka "Hellfire"; an abusive physical, mental, and emotional punishment that lasts forever). The book will provide an easy-to-read, contextualized commentary to refute the popular Augustinian-Calvinistic view.
We will also explore the meanings of four distinct Hebrew and Greek words frequently translated as "hell" in English.
Many people are waking up to this truth—don’t be the last. This book summarizes everything you need to know.
Please note that this concise 140-page volume is essentially "Part III – Hell in the Bible," augmented with several other paragraphs from my comprehensive 330-page work, "HELL: A Jewish Perspective on a Christian Doctrine," also available for sale.
Chapter #1: The Philology of "Hell" (Sheol, Hades, Gehenna, Tartarus)
Chapter #2: A Summary of Hell Views in Modern Christianity
Chapter #3: Hell in the Torah
Chapter #4: Hell in the Prophets
Chapter #5: "To be thrown into Gehenna"
Chapter #6: 'Eternal' Punishment
Chapter #7: The Sheep and Goats
Chapter #8: Outer Darkness, Weeping and Gnashing of Teeth
Chapter #9: Lazarus and the Rich Man
Chapter #10: "Unquenchable Fire"
Chapter #11: "Born Again" to Avoid Hellfire?
Chapter #12: "Away from me, you evildoers!"
Chapter #13: "Narrow Gates" That Lead Where?
Chapter #14: The "Gates of Hell"
Chapter #15: Fear Whom?
Chapter #16: Hell in the Book of Acts
Chapter #17: Racing for What?
Chapter #18: Everlasting Destruction
Chapter #19: Tartarus
Chapter #20: Jude
Chapter #21: The Book of Life
Chapter #22: The Lake of Fire, Sulfur, and Smoke (Revelation)
Why is it that so many Christians read as metaphors "The Whore of Babylon" (Revelation 17:5), "Pluck out your eye" (Matthew 5:29), "Strain a gnat, swallow a camel" (Matthew 23:24), "Salt of the Earth" (Matthew 5:13), "Living Stones" (1 Peter 2:5), "A Thorn in the Flesh" (2 Corinthians 12:7), "The Lamb of God" (John 1:29), etc. Yet they insist on reading these "The Lake of Fire" (Revelation 20:14-15), "Unquenchable Fire" (Matthew 3:12), "Weeping and Gnashing of Teeth" (Matthew 8:12), "Worm That Never Dies" (Mark 9:48), "Furnace of Fire" (Matthew 13:42), "Outer Darkness" (Matthew 22:13), "Fire and Brimstone" (Revelation 21:8). The answer, for the most part, is that they don’t fully grasp the original meaning of these Jewish symbols within their historical and cultural context.
While my 340-page book, A Jewish Perspective on a Christian Doctrine, has received tremendous reviews, I understand that not everyone has the time to read such a lengthy work. So, if you’re looking for answers, this new, concise, standalone book focuses on the "hellfire verses" in the Bible, examining them within their original Jewish context. This small book is an excerpt (Part III) from my 2024 book on Hell, created especially for those with limited time!
In this short 140-page book (large font), we will journey through Bible verses that Fundamentalists believe reference the Eternal Conscious Torment view of hell (aka "Hellfire"; an abusive physical, mental, and emotional punishment that lasts forever). The book will provide an easy-to-read, contextualized commentary to refute the popular Augustinian-Calvinistic view.
We will also explore the meanings of four distinct Hebrew and Greek words frequently translated as "hell" in English.
Many people are waking up to this truth—don’t be the last. This book summarizes everything you need to know.
Please note that this concise 140-page volume is essentially "Part III – Hell in the Bible," augmented with several other paragraphs from my comprehensive 330-page work, "HELL: A Jewish Perspective on a Christian Doctrine," also available for sale.
148 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 1, 2025
71 people are currently reading
17 people want to read
About the author
Eitan Bar
46 books58 followersDr. Eitan Bar (born 1984, Tel Aviv) is a Bible scholar, author, and Israeli-Jewish follower of Jesus with multiple advanced degrees in Bible and theology. His unique background—living in Israel, being a native Hebrew speaker, and possessing advanced Christian education—provides a fresh and timely perspective on Christian beliefs and doctrines.
Dr. Bar co-founded ONE FOR ISRAEL Ministry, a Messianic Reformed Baptist non-profit and Bible college. He later left the organization in 2022 and deconstructed his Baptistic-Calvinistic beliefs, becoming an independent author of several books, including a few best-sellers (available on Amazon.com)
Eitan frequently lectures worldwide, primarily in Europe and the U.S., and his Hebrew-language videos, with over 25 million views, have made him a widely recognized figure in Israel for representing faith in Yeshua (Hebrew for Jesus).
Dr. Bar co-founded ONE FOR ISRAEL Ministry, a Messianic Reformed Baptist non-profit and Bible college. He later left the organization in 2022 and deconstructed his Baptistic-Calvinistic beliefs, becoming an independent author of several books, including a few best-sellers (available on Amazon.com)
Eitan frequently lectures worldwide, primarily in Europe and the U.S., and his Hebrew-language videos, with over 25 million views, have made him a widely recognized figure in Israel for representing faith in Yeshua (Hebrew for Jesus).
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
May 29, 2025
A proactive book on Death and Hades
From the very first page, it is clear that the author possesses a strong background in Hebrew linguistics, which brings valuable depth to our understanding of the Doctrine of Eternal Judgment. I was especially struck by the observation that neither the Old Testament nor the writings of Paul mention a place of eternal burning or torment commonly referred to as Hell. The word Gehenna should not be translated as "Hell," especially considering that "Hell" is neither a Hebrew nor Greek term. Paul consistently preached the "Good News," emphasizing themes of life and death rather than everlasting torment. The author carefully examines mistranslations of words rendered as "Hell"—misinterpretations that have contributed to misleading doctrines, including certain teachings found in Calvinism.
David Tacha, PhD
From the very first page, it is clear that the author possesses a strong background in Hebrew linguistics, which brings valuable depth to our understanding of the Doctrine of Eternal Judgment. I was especially struck by the observation that neither the Old Testament nor the writings of Paul mention a place of eternal burning or torment commonly referred to as Hell. The word Gehenna should not be translated as "Hell," especially considering that "Hell" is neither a Hebrew nor Greek term. Paul consistently preached the "Good News," emphasizing themes of life and death rather than everlasting torment. The author carefully examines mistranslations of words rendered as "Hell"—misinterpretations that have contributed to misleading doctrines, including certain teachings found in Calvinism.
David Tacha, PhD
January 4, 2025
The Bible’s Real Truth About Jesus Complete Restoration
The writer gives a very excellent Biblical case from the viewpoints of the scripture themselves showing the truth why verses that have been used to promote eternal torment are not what has been defined as. The viewpoints of the Biblical writers are shown to be about the interactions of God in earthly life, but not about eternal torment. The writer shows that God’s love is transforming creation to reverse the fall of creation into sin by Adam. In all of the book, the truth wins out, because the Bible is shown to support the love of God in his glorious work to bring creation transformation for eternity.
The writer gives a very excellent Biblical case from the viewpoints of the scripture themselves showing the truth why verses that have been used to promote eternal torment are not what has been defined as. The viewpoints of the Biblical writers are shown to be about the interactions of God in earthly life, but not about eternal torment. The writer shows that God’s love is transforming creation to reverse the fall of creation into sin by Adam. In all of the book, the truth wins out, because the Bible is shown to support the love of God in his glorious work to bring creation transformation for eternity.
July 16, 2025
Wow! Growing up in a Baptist church I thought I really understood what the Bible said. But, you know what? The Pharisees in Jesus's day thought they knew exactly what to look for in the Messiah - and they really missed it! This book has really opened my eyes to make me wonder - have I been misinterpreting Scripture all these years? My prayer is that I will not be deceived - and Eitan Bar's books are opening my eyes to a deeper understanding that maybe I need to take a second look at how the Bible was originally written. Thank you Eitan Bar. You've given me something to dig deeper into as I seek the Truth of The Word.
February 2, 2025
Incredibly enlightening and revealing
I have been studying for a few years biblical history and have come to the conclusion that many of The Bible's central teachings were hijacked by men with agendas and intentions of increasing their power and control over a people.
Ethan's extensive explanations and breakdowns of original scripture, historical and cultural context, and not biased agenda based interpretations is confirmation of that.
Read this book, and abt other that Sudan Bar publishes. Your biblical knowledge and faith in Christ will grow exponentially from it
I have been studying for a few years biblical history and have come to the conclusion that many of The Bible's central teachings were hijacked by men with agendas and intentions of increasing their power and control over a people.
Ethan's extensive explanations and breakdowns of original scripture, historical and cultural context, and not biased agenda based interpretations is confirmation of that.
Read this book, and abt other that Sudan Bar publishes. Your biblical knowledge and faith in Christ will grow exponentially from it
March 11, 2025
Progressive theology
I'm sure this author means well, however progressive theology is the milieu of this book. I'm not a calvinist or a fundamentalist or a hard core ECT person (I pastored for 40 years teaching the Bible), however the problem with the progressive theology atmosphere here is the very poor exegesis of Scripture leading to major error. His exposition for instance of John 3 on being "born again" is incredibly problematic. His Jewish credentials can't be called on to justify poor exegesis. He uses his Jewish background as a backdrop to teach progressive theology.
I'm sure this author means well, however progressive theology is the milieu of this book. I'm not a calvinist or a fundamentalist or a hard core ECT person (I pastored for 40 years teaching the Bible), however the problem with the progressive theology atmosphere here is the very poor exegesis of Scripture leading to major error. His exposition for instance of John 3 on being "born again" is incredibly problematic. His Jewish credentials can't be called on to justify poor exegesis. He uses his Jewish background as a backdrop to teach progressive theology.
December 11, 2025
The book that finally made everything click.
I’ve read countless books trying to make sense of what the Bible actually teaches about hell, but this is the first one that made the pieces fall into place. Dr. Bar combines linguistic insight, ancient Jewish context, and clear logic in a way that feels both scholarly and deeply personal. I kept stopping to say, “Wait—why has no one ever explained this before?” This book didn’t just challenge my doctrine; it healed years of fear-based theology. Absolutely transformative.
I’ve read countless books trying to make sense of what the Bible actually teaches about hell, but this is the first one that made the pieces fall into place. Dr. Bar combines linguistic insight, ancient Jewish context, and clear logic in a way that feels both scholarly and deeply personal. I kept stopping to say, “Wait—why has no one ever explained this before?” This book didn’t just challenge my doctrine; it healed years of fear-based theology. Absolutely transformative.
December 13, 2025
If you want to understand the Bible’s real teaching on hell — start here.
This isn’t speculation, philosophy, or wishful thinking. It’s careful exegesis grounded in the original languages and ancient Jewish worldview. I learned more about Gehenna, Sheol, and judgment in 150 pages than in 20 years of church sermons. The explanations are clear, the arguments airtight, and the tone deeply pastoral. Dr. Bar writes with a rare mix of scholarly expertise and a father’s tenderness. I’m recommending it to everyone I know.
This isn’t speculation, philosophy, or wishful thinking. It’s careful exegesis grounded in the original languages and ancient Jewish worldview. I learned more about Gehenna, Sheol, and judgment in 150 pages than in 20 years of church sermons. The explanations are clear, the arguments airtight, and the tone deeply pastoral. Dr. Bar writes with a rare mix of scholarly expertise and a father’s tenderness. I’m recommending it to everyone I know.
December 14, 2025
Finally, someone brave enough to tell the truth — and qualified enough to prove it.
I’ve studied theology for years, and almost every book I’ve read repeated the same Western assumptions. This book is different. Dr. Bar approaches Scripture as a native Hebrew speaker steeped in the culture that produced it, and the difference is staggering. His explanation of judgment as purification rather than eternal torture was eye-opening and deeply moving. It felt like someone handed me the Bible in its original colors instead of the faded Western filter. Stunning work.
I’ve studied theology for years, and almost every book I’ve read repeated the same Western assumptions. This book is different. Dr. Bar approaches Scripture as a native Hebrew speaker steeped in the culture that produced it, and the difference is staggering. His explanation of judgment as purification rather than eternal torture was eye-opening and deeply moving. It felt like someone handed me the Bible in its original colors instead of the faded Western filter. Stunning work.
December 14, 2025
This book didn’t just change my theology. It changed my view of God.
I expected an academic critique. What I found was a journey — one that dismantled fear, restored hope, and reintroduced me to a God who is far more loving than the doctrines I inherited. The chapter on the Hebrew words behind “hell” alone is worth the price of the book. By the end, I had tears in my eyes. Not because I was afraid — but because for the first time in my life, I understood that divine justice and divine love were never enemies. A masterpiece.
I expected an academic critique. What I found was a journey — one that dismantled fear, restored hope, and reintroduced me to a God who is far more loving than the doctrines I inherited. The chapter on the Hebrew words behind “hell” alone is worth the price of the book. By the end, I had tears in my eyes. Not because I was afraid — but because for the first time in my life, I understood that divine justice and divine love were never enemies. A masterpiece.
December 12, 2025
A breath of fresh air in a smoky room of confusion.
Every page felt like someone opening a window in a room I didn’t realize had grown dark. Dr. Bar dismantles centuries of inherited assumptions with grace and clarity, guiding the reader back to what the Hebrew Scriptures and early disciples actually meant — not the medieval distortions we’ve been handed. If you grew up terrified of hell, this book will feel like oxygen to your soul. Brilliant, compassionate, and long overdue.
Every page felt like someone opening a window in a room I didn’t realize had grown dark. Dr. Bar dismantles centuries of inherited assumptions with grace and clarity, guiding the reader back to what the Hebrew Scriptures and early disciples actually meant — not the medieval distortions we’ve been handed. If you grew up terrified of hell, this book will feel like oxygen to your soul. Brilliant, compassionate, and long overdue.
January 14, 2025
very informative
The explanation of the parable in Luke about Lazarus and Abraham was worth the read for me. Certain unbelievers going out existence instead of burning forever in hell was something I already believed. Therefore it wasn’t a hard sell. Easy to read and well written.
The explanation of the parable in Luke about Lazarus and Abraham was worth the read for me. Certain unbelievers going out existence instead of burning forever in hell was something I already believed. Therefore it wasn’t a hard sell. Easy to read and well written.
August 29, 2025
Disagreed with the author in many concepts but appreciate the effort .🙏🏼🙏🏼
August 4, 2025
I am not a believer, though I grew up attending the Methodist church, after reading the bible in my mid twenties, I came to the conclusion things just did not add up, like why would a loving God sentence his creation to eternal damnation?
This well researched book explains how mistranslations and human influence over centuries has created the concept of sinners burning and suffering for all eternity.
It was a quick read and had a great deal of supporting references as well as external insights from other theologians.
This well researched book explains how mistranslations and human influence over centuries has created the concept of sinners burning and suffering for all eternity.
It was a quick read and had a great deal of supporting references as well as external insights from other theologians.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews