Does Revelation 14:11 Teach Eternal Torment? Examining a Proof-text on Hell

Abstract

This article examines a text (Rev. 14: 11) that is usually cited to support the doctrine of hell as eternal torment. A new exegetical interpretation of Revelation 14: 11 is proposed, suggesting that the traditional reading of the elements of this verse misses the inverted parallelistic structure of the unit Revelation 14:9-11. When the chiasm is discerned, the meaning of the text is seen to give no confirmation to ‘eternal torment’. Rather, this text fits well into the Conditional Immortality interpretation. This view holds that God will finally and fully bring his enemies to judgement, with absolute destruction and extinction as the result. This text is also discussed in the context of the Revelation to John, and the general teaching of the New Testament on the destiny of the unsaved. Some concluding comments of the function of interpretative doctrinal grids are offered.