Bible Term Defined

Brimstone: A bright yellow mineral usually found near active volcanoes. Large deposits of this substance are found in the Dead Sea region. Highly combustible, it burns with a very disagreeable odor. Brimstone (burning stone) is often associated with fire (Rev. 9:17-18; 20:10; 21:8), and with barrenness and devastation (Deut. 29:23; Job 18:15). Brimstone was considered an agent of God's judgment (Gen. 19:24). In the New Testament, it is used symbolically to represent God's wrath and the future punishment of the wicked (Rev. 9:17-18; 14:10, 20:10).