10:7

the abyss: Or “the deep.” The Greek word aʹbys·sos has the basic meaning “exceedingly deep” or “unfathomable; boundless.” The term occurs nine times in the Christian Greek Scriptures, where it generally refers to a place or condition of confinement. (See study note on Lu 8:31.) Here at Ro 10:7, it refers to the symbolic place in which Christ Jesus spent parts of three days and from where his Father resurrected him. (Compare Ps 71:19, 20; Mt 12:40.) Jesus was confined, or restrained, when he was dead​—unconscious and completely inactive. Only his Father could free him from that place of confinement. (Compare 2Sa 22:5, 6; Job 38:16, 17; Ps 9:13; 107:18; 116:3; Ac 2:24.) However, the term “abyss” cannot properly be limited in meaning to the common grave of mankind. (See Glossary, “Grave.”) It is noteworthy that the Greek Septuagint does not use aʹbys·sos to translate the Hebrew word sheʼohlʹ (“the Grave”). Also, the symbolic place of confinement in which Satan and his demons will be held is called an “abyss” and is also described as a “prison.” This usage of the term further supports the thought that “the abyss” is not limited in meaning to the common grave of mankind.​—Lu 8:31; Re 20:1, 3, 7.