Understanding Modern Catholic Translations and Why It Matters
Q: Why doesn’t the word “Hell” appear in modern Catholic Bibles like the NABRE?
You’re not imagining it. In the New American Bible Revised Edition (NABRE), the word “Hell” rarely — if ever — appears. This has caused confusion among faithful Catholics who are used to older translations like the Douay-Rheims or hearing homilies about Hell as a real place of punishment.
So what changed?
It’s not the doctrine — it’s the translation. Scholars decided to preserve the original words used in the Bible:
| Original Term | Language | Meaning |
| Sheol | Hebrew | The grave / abode of the dead (neutral) |
| Hades | Greek | The Greek underworld (similar to Sheol) |
| Gehenna | Greek | A place of fiery judgment — used by Jesus |
These words are now translated more literally instead of using “Hell” as a catch-all. But that doesn’t mean the Church denies the existence of Hell.
Q: So is there still a Hell?
Yes. The Catholic Church absolutely affirms Hell as:
“The state of definitive self-exclusion from communion with God and the blessed.”
— Catechism of the Catholic Church, §1033
It is not just a metaphor or ancient idea. It’s the final, eternal consequence of dying in unrepented mortal sin.
Q: Why would translators avoid the word “Hell” if it’s real?
Because over the centuries, the word “Hell” took on very specific imagery and connotations — often shaped more by culture than Scripture. By using original words like “Gehenna,” translators aim to:
- Reflect the nuance in the biblical text
- Avoid oversimplification
- Encourage deeper catechesis and understanding
But here’s the problem:
Most lay Catholics have no idea what “Gehenna” means.
Q: Does this cause confusion?
Absolutely. When the word “Hell” disappears, many assume the Church is backing off from the doctrine. This confusion is compounded by:
- Homilies that never mention judgment or sin
- Liturgy and hymns stripped of sacrifice or spiritual warfare
- A growing trend toward universalism (the idea that everyone goes to Heaven)
Q: So what does the Church teach about the afterlife?
Traditionally, Catholicism affirms:
- Heaven – Eternal union with God for those who die in His friendship.
- Purgatory – Temporary purification for those on their way to Heaven.
- Hell – Eternal separation from God for those who freely reject Him.
Before Christ’s resurrection, even the righteous dead went to Sheol — a holding place, not Heaven. That’s why we say in the Apostles’ Creed:
“He descended into Hell” — meaning the abode of the dead, not the damned.
After His resurrection, Heaven was opened — and now judgment is final.
Q: Why does it matter if we talk about Hell?
Because without Hell, morality becomes optional.
- If there’s no eternal consequence, why repent?
- If everyone goes to Heaven, why choose holiness?
- If God never judges, why did Christ die?
“Do not fear those who kill the body… fear him who can destroy both soul and body in Gehenna.” — Matthew 10:28
Q: What’s behind the move away from talking about Hell?
Let’s be honest:
- “Hell” makes people uncomfortable.
- Modern theology often trades truth for sentiment.
- Cultural pressure values inclusivity over conversion.
But:
Real love warns.
God is love — and because He loves us, He warns us. Jesus spoke of Hell more than anyone else in Scripture. Not to scare us pointlessly — but to wake us up.
✅ Layperson Summary:
- Is Hell in the Bible? Yes, but often under original terms like “Gehenna.”
- Does the Church still teach Hell? Yes, as an eternal state of self-exclusion from God.
- Is it just a metaphor? No. It’s a real and final consequence.
- Why avoid it? Some translators aim for accuracy, but clarity suffers.
- Why it matters: Without Hell, we lose the urgency of repentance and the meaning of salvation.
What You Can Do:
- Read Scripture with traditional commentary (e.g., the Catena Aurea)
- Use catechisms and older missals to understand Church teaching
- Teach your children and friends the full truth — not a softened version
- Speak up in your parish — charitably but firmly — when the doctrine is blurred
Because the God who is Love… is also the God who warns.
Seized by Christ 