Life and Relationships

What Is the Second Death?

The second death is the final death described in Revelation after the resurrection, judgment, and final destruction of evil. It is associated with the lake of fire and represents the permanent end of sin and rebellion.

Published 2026-09-13 · Updated 2026-09-27

Written and reviewed by the Word Oasis Editorial Team. Read our editorial policy.

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State of the DeadHell

Biblical explanation

gives the clearest definition: “Death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death.” The first death is the death experienced by human beings in the present world. The second death occurs after the final judgment. describes two resurrections. Those who participate in the first resurrection are blessed and the second death has no power over them (). After the millennium, the remaining dead are resurrected for judgment. Satan is released, rebellion occurs, and fire comes down from God (). Then the lake of fire is called the second death. again identifies the lake of fire as the second death. The second death is therefore not merely another stage of ordinary mortality. It is the final, irreversible destruction of sin and those who ultimately cling to it.

In brief

gives the clearest definition: “Death and hell were cast into the lake of fire.

Bible references

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Editorial note

This answer is written and reviewed by the Word Oasis Editorial Team, and is presented with supporting references so you can examine each passage in context. If you notice an error or unclear statement, please suggest a correction.