Bible Geography · Jerusalem, Israel · c. 800–400 BC
Valley of Hinnom / Gehenna
Description
The Valley of Hinnom (Gei Ben-Hinnom) runs along the southern and western edges of ancient Jerusalem. In the monarchic period it became notorious as the site of child sacrifice to the pagan god Molech, practiced by apostate Israelite kings. The valley was later desecrated and became a perpetually burning garbage dump, lending its name to 'Gehenna' — the New Testament word for hell.
Significance
Hinnom represents the depth of human depravity in idolatry and the seriousness of divine judgment on sin. Jesus's repeated references to Gehenna are a solemn call to take sin seriously, recognizing that the consequences of persistent rebellion are real and dreadful.
Key Events
Kings Ahaz and Manasseh burned their sons in the Valley of Hinnom as offerings to Molech (2 Chronicles 28:3; 33:6). King Josiah defiled Topheth in the valley to end child sacrifice (2 Kings 23:10). The prophet Jeremiah pronounced judgment on Israel for these practices (Jeremiah 7:31-32).
Modern Context
Today the Valley of Hinnom (Gei Ben-Hinnom in Hebrew) is a quiet park and green valley southwest of Jerusalem's Old City. The valley is no longer associated with any destructive activity, but its ancient history is preserved in the very word 'Gehenna' used across many languages to denote eternal punishment.