FORMAN CHRISTIAN COLLEGE (A CHARTERED UNIVERSITY)

“THE IMPRISONED SPIRITS”: AN EXEGETICAL ANALYSIS OF 1 PETER 3:18–22

SUBMITTED TO DR. WESLEY DAVEY THOMAS

IN PARTIAL FULFILLMENT OF

CRST 575 GREEK EXEGESIS OF 1 PETER

BY
SHAHZADA ROBIN
22 MAY 2024
 “THE IMPRISONED SPIRITS”: AN EXEGETICAL ANALYSIS OF 1 PETER 3:18–22

1 Peter 3:18-22 contains a complex passage that has led to confusion and debate among

scholars. The passage refers to "Spirits in Prison," and scholars have different interpretations

about who these spirits are, where they are imprisoned, and why Jesus Christ preached to

them. Some scholars, such as F. W. Beare, interpret the "spirits in prison" as the entire

generation of mankind that perished in the flood. Others, like Bo Reicke, suggest that these

spirits are the fallen angels who sinned just before the flood, while not excluding the sinful

people of that time. In either case, the common understanding is that after His victory over

sin and death, Christ proclaimed His victory to those in Sheol. This paper aims to conduct a

grammatical exegesis to determine the meaning of the phrase "The spirits in prison" and to

answer the question, "to whom does the phrase 'The spirits in prison' refer to in 1 Peter 3:19?"

The interpretation of this passage has sparked intense debate among Christian

scholars for centuries. However, recent years have seen significant progress in addressing the

enigma presented by this rather cryptic text. Modern scholarship presents various

perspectives on the "spirits in prison."

The first perspective suggests that these spirits might be the souls of the deceased in

Hell who were given a chance for redemption during the three-day period between Christ's

death and resurrection. According to Reicke, it is believed that Christ descended to preach to

specific spirits during this time. He posits that the spirits to whom Christ preached were

particularly wicked and were imprisoned due to their disobedience during the time of Noah.

Reicke contends that these spirits refer to the angels mentioned in Genesis 6:1—4, who

succumbed to sin and played a role in the flood. Reicke also includes those who perished in

1
the flood among these spirits, suggesting they were the descendants of the fallen angels who

were punished in Genesis 6 for their transgressions with the daughters of men.1

Secondly, Selwyn discusses the possibility of Spirits in prison to be fallen angels, the

disobedient generation before Noah’s flood, or both. He thinks that these spirits may include

spirits which were believed to inhabit abysses and wait there until they are finally destroyed.

He regards Sheol as a prison where spirits await their final judgement.2 Paul J. Achtemeier

suggests that the non-human angelic beings mentioned in Genesis 6:1-6, whose disobedience

led to the flood, were later imprisoned. These beings are referred to as "πνεύματα" and are

believed to be spiritual entities, not humans. Their transgression involved taking human

wives, and their descendants are thought to have contributed to the proliferation of evil in the

world.3

Many scholars believe that before his incarnation, Christ spoke through Noah in spirit

to the people of Noah’s time. This interpretation was also held by many reformers. Grudem

emphasizes that while Noah was building the ark, Christ, "in spirit," was present in Noah and

preached about repentance and righteousness through him to the unbelievers who lived on

earth at that time but are now considered imprisoned spirits. 4 Jesus, overflowing with

compassion, descended to give the good news to the ones who turned from their evil ways

prior to the flood. His divine goal was to lead their souls from the realm of purgatory to the

eternal bliss of heaven, offering hope and redemption to those who sought it. 5 Bigg believes

that after Jesus' death, he continued to live and minister, and that the event mentioned in

verse 19 occurred between his crucifixion and ascension. Bigg's opinion is that Christ not
1
Bo Reicke, The Epistles of James, Peter, and Jude: The Anchor Bible (Garden City, NY: Doubleday &
Company, 1964), 109.
2
Edward Gordon Selwyn, The First Epistle of St. Peter: Thornapple Commentaries (Grand Rapids, MI:
Baker Book House, 1981), 199.
3
Paul J. Achtemeier., 1 Peter: Hermeneia – A Critical and Historical Commentary on the Bible
(Minneapolis, MN: Fortress Press, 1996), 240.
4
Wayne A. Grudem, 1 Peter An Introduction and Commentary: Tyndale New Testament Commentaries
Vol. 17 (Nottingham, England: Inter-Varsity Press, 1988), 136.
5
Sampson M. Nwaomah and Simdumise Poswa, “Proclamation of Triumph over the Spirits in Prison in
1 Peter 3:18-22,” TAJBT 23 (2022): 1-17.

2
only ministered to people on earth, but also to the spirits in prison. These spirits are those

who rejected Noah's message, and Christ offered them an opportunity to repent.

Third, after His resurrection and ascension to heaven, Christ proclaimed his victory to

the evil angels in heaven, who are also known as spirits.6 Clowney's perspective suggests that

despite Christ's physical death, his spirit persisted in the spiritual realm. According to him,

Christ preached to the fallen angels, indicating a continuation of existence beyond the

physical plane.7 Watson and Callan propose an interpretation of the text suggesting that it

refers to Christ's activities after His resurrection. They suggest that Christ, in spirit, went to

proclaim to the imprisoned spirits. They also posit that this occurred during His ascension to

heaven after the resurrection. Additionally, they believe that these imprisoned spirits are the

evil angels described in Genesis 6:1-4, who are being punished for fathering human children

and producing wicked offspring.8

In his work, Feldmeier delves into the intricate task of interpreting 1 Peter 3:19. He

draws from early church traditions, the book of 1 Enoch, and other Jewish writings in an

attempt to understand the "spirits in prison" and their location. He suggests that Christ's

descent should be seen as a complementary event to His ascension, and he links the

"πορευθεὶς" of the ascension in verse 22 directly to the "πορευθεὶς" of the descent in

verse 19. 9

I will argue that the “spirits in prison” mentioned in 1 Peter 3:19 refer to the evil

angels who were cast out of heaven with Satan.

6
Kim, Myong, “Christ’s Proclamation to the Spirits in Prison in 1 Peter 3:19,” R&R 23 (2019): 7-31.
7
Edmund Clowney, The Message of 1 Peter: The Bible Speaks Today (Leicester, England: Inter-Varsity
Press, 1994), 158.
8
Watson, Duane F. and Terrance Callan, First and Second Peter: paideia Commentaries on The New
Testament (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic, 2012), 91.
9
Reinhard Feldmeier, The First Letter of Peter: A Commentary on the Greek Text, trans. Peter H.
Davids (Waco, TX: Baylor University Press, 2008), 205.

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The Function of θανατωθεὶς … ζῳοποιηθεὶς and μὲν … δὲ Construction
in v 18

"In my thesis presentation, I will explore clauses such as "θανατωθεὶς μὲν σαρκὶ" and

"ζῳοποιηθεὶς δὲ πνεύματι." These clauses contain aorist passive, nominative masculine

singular participles "θανατωθεὶς" and "ζῳοποιηθεὶς," which I interpret as means of

participles modifying "προσαγάγῃ." This interpretation is based on the understanding that

it is through His death and resurrection that Christ brings sinners to God. However, Michaels

proposes that these participles function independently in this context.".10 In this context, these

participles can be aptly translated as “put to death” and “made alive”. Conversely, Elliot sees

these participles modifying whatever is following them. He translates them with πορευθεὶς

in mind which is in the following verse 19. He takes it as the main verb. Although there is a

succession in Christ’s death, resurrection, and ascension11, his argument cannot be considered

correct and the main verb of the relative clause in verse 19 must be ἐκήρυξεν. Achtemeier

explains that this opposing phrase highlights the stark difference between Christ's state of

being deceased and living and illustrates His connection to both the physical and spiritual

realms. 12 He asserts that the "μὲν … δὲ" construction is used to emphasize

"ζῳοποιηθεὶς."13 Wallace points out that "σαρκὶ" is in the dative case,

indicating sphere,14 meanwhile, πνεύματι is in the dative case, indicating the means by

which something is done.15 Forbes, however, argues that the “μὲν … δὲ” construction

creates a balanced structure within the clause. The use of "μὲν" indicates that the crucifixion

of Jesus was overshadowed by the event described in the "δὲ" clause, which is the

resurrection. Therefore, both “σαρκὶ” and “πνεύματι” should be understood in a similar

10
J. Ramsey Michaels, 1 Peter: Word Biblical Commentary (Waco, TX: Word Books, 1988), 203.
11
Mark Dubis, 1 Peter, A Handbook on the Greek Text (Waco, TX: Baylor University Press, 2010), 117.
12
Nwaomah and Poswa, “Proclamation of Triumph.” 8.
13
Nwaomah and Poswa, “Proclamation of Triumph.” 8.
14
Nwaomah and Poswa, “Proclamation of Triumph.” 8.
15
Nwaomah and Poswa, “Proclamation of Triumph.” 8.

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fashion.16 The interpretation of these specific nouns has evolved over time. Initially, Patristic

interpreters commonly viewed them as referring to the body and the spirit of Jesus. However,

this interpretation has been generally abandoned in more recent times. Instead, most recent

commentators understand these nouns to refer to two modes or spheres of existence, rather

than as constituent parts of Jesus. This majority view usually interprets the datives as datives

of reference/respect or datives of sphere. On the other hand, Achtemeier argues for a different

reading, suggesting that the datives should be taken as datives of instrument, with “σαρκὶ”

referring to humanity. According to this interpretation, Jesus was "put to death by humans,

but made alive by the Spirit." 17 Köstenberger, Merkle, and Plummer also similarly

understand both of these datives.18 This paper supports the latter viewpoint, unlike

Achtemeier, who interprets these as datives of means. I, along with Nwaomah and Poswa 19

and other scholars and theologians, argue that these datives should be understood as datives

of sphere. This interpretation allows us to discern the stark juxtaposition between the death of

Christ within the confines of the flesh and His resurrection, which brought about a new life

within the realm of the spirit.20 and not through His death. The passage unequivocally states

that it does not refer to a span encompassing the events of His death and resurrection when

He proclaimed the good news to the spirits.

The Antecedent of ἐν ᾧ and Meaning of πνεύμα and φυλακῇ

The second piece of evidence is found within the phrase ἐν ᾧ. According to Karen Jobes,

there is debate about the nature of the pronoun ᾧ and it is not easy to determine the

antecedent of this phrase.21 Nwaomah and Poswa have noted that in the given context, the

antecedent of ἐν ᾧ is πνεύματι. They interpret ᾧ as a relative pronoun indicating how

16
Nwaomah and Poswa, “Proclamation of Triumph.” 8.
17
Dubis, 1 Peter, 119.
18
Nwaomah and Poswa, “Proclamation of Triumph.” 9.
19
Nwaomah and Poswa, “Proclamation of Triumph.” 9.
20
Forbes, 1 Peter, 240.
21
Nwaomah and Poswa, “Proclamation of Triumph.” 9.

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something is done. 22 They suggest that Jesus preached to the spirits who were in prison

within the realm of the spirit. This position is also held by Forbes. 23 Regarding the

interpretation of the relative pronoun, this paper supports the idea that it implies that the

newly resurrected Jesus preached instead of the Holy Spirit being the source of His

proclamation. The contrast between the realm of spirit and His death, which appears to have

incapacitated Him, further supports this position. The renewed life that comes from his rising

from the dead confirms his victory against the spirits.

The next part of the clause "τοῖς ἐν φυλακῇ πνεύμασιν πορευθεὶς

ἐκήρυξεν" has been identified as the focal point of discussion. Whalen argues that the term

"πνεύμα" is occasionally used to refer to human beings.24 According to Forbes, πνεύμα in

its plural sense has a specific meaning when referring to human beings. He also states that it

can mean spiritual beings when it is used without a qualifier, (Heb 1:14), and mostly the evil

spirits in particular (Mt 8:16; 12:45; Lk 10:20; Rev 16:14). 25 In contrast to Wahlen's

viewpoint, Forbes points out that "ψυχαί" (souls) is used to mean humans in verse 20. 26 The

term φυλακῇ, which means "imprisonment" or "captivity," is not mentioned in the Bible to

mean grave. Therefore, it cannot be applied to the concept of sin being confined or

imprisoned.27 According to Forbes, the term "φυλακή" in the New Testament is used to

denote the location where Satan and demons are held captive, as indicated in Revelation 18:2,

20:7, 2 Peter 2:4, and Jude 6. 28 The evidence suggests that the reference to "spirits and

prison" pertains to supernatural entities who have rebelled against authority, rather than

humans.

22
Dubis, 1 Peter, 119.
23
Forbes, 1 Peter, 242.
24
Nwaomah and Poswa, “Proclamation of Triumph.” 10.
25
Nwaomah and Poswa, “Proclamation of Triumph.” 10.
26
Forbes, 1 Peter, 244.
27
Dubis, 1 Peter, 121.
28
Nwaomah and Poswa, “Proclamation of Triumph.” 10.

6
 Meaning of ἐκήρυξεν and Explanation of Evil Angels

In the text, the significance of the word "ἐκήρυξεν" is highlighted. The word typically

means preaching, which is relevant in Noah's context. However, to fully understand its

meaning in our case, it's important to consider the complete semantic range of the word.

Additionally, Forbes points out that "κηρύσσω" is sometimes used to proclaim an event or

general news (Luke 12:3; Rom 2:21; Rev 5:2). Furthermore, in 1 Peter, the author uses

"εὐαγγελίζω" to refer to the proclamation of the Gospel (1:12, 25; 4:6). 29 Furthermore,

Watson explains that when the Greek word κηρύσσω is used to refer to the act of preaching

the Gospel, it typically includes an object, such as the good news of Christ (as seen in Mt

24:14;1 Thess 2:9). 30 "Here, Dubis astutely observes that there is no direct object of

κηρύσσω." 31 In this particular context, the interpretation of "preaching of the gospel"

suggests that it involves the announcement of a significant event to the spirits who were

waiting, rather than the mere dissemination of the gospel's teachings. While it is commonly

believed that the "spirits in prison" refer to malevolent angels, there isn't sufficient evidence

to support the notion that these angels wed human wives, produced offspring, and
32
subsequently contributed to the pervasive evil that ultimately led to the flood. This

correlation between evil angels and the beings who married human women (referred to as

daughters of men) is drawn from extra-biblical Jewish texts such as 2 Enoch, which is widely

regarded as the key to understanding this enigmatic passage. 33 According to many scholars,

the story of the sons of God marrying human women in Genesis 6:1-4 may have been

misinterpreted. Some suggest that the sons of God were actually the offsprings of Seth, who

were submissive to God, while the sons of men were the offsprings of Cain, known for their

29
Forbes, 1 Peter, 244.
30
Watson, First and Second Peter, 90.
31
Nwaomah and Poswa, “Proclamation of Triumph.” 12.
32
Dubis, 1 Peter, 121.
33
Watson, First and Second Peter, 90.

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rebellious nature. Additionally, Jesus explicitly stated that angels do not marry, adding to the

discussion on this topic.

Revelation 12:7-9 recounts a celestial war where Satan and the angels who aligned

with his rebellion were cast out. In Matthew 25:41, Jesus mentioned that hell is prepared for

them, a similar punishment to that mentioned in 2 Peter 2:4 and Jude 6. Furthermore,

passages such as Ephesians 1:19-21 and Colossians 2:10, 15 indicate that Jesus has been

resurrected and placed above these powers, implying that believers must confront these

malevolent forces.

Conclusion

The evidence discussed strongly suggests that the imprisoned spirits mentioned in 1 Peter

3:18-24 are actually evil angels that fell from heaven alongside Satan. It is implied that Jesus

Christ proclaimed His victory over death and all forces of darkness to these spirits. These

spirits are awaiting their judgment, as indicated in Jude 6 and Revelation 20:1-3.

Some may question why these spirits are considered to be those whom Noah preached

to, and why they chose to disobey. One possible explanation for this objection is that the

disobedience is a way to identify them, regardless of when Christ preached to them. It is also

important to note that Noah's time is mentioned as an example of God's grace and love

towards humanity throughout history. Despite humanity's disobedience, God has always

shown consideration and love. Out of His love, He sent Jesus Christ to die on the cross and

conquer death and sin through His resurrection.

Peter encourages his suffering readers to persevere and enjoy the victory that Christ

has won for them. 34

34
Nwaomah and Poswa, “Proclamation of Triumph.” 15.

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 BIBLIOGRAPHY

Achtemeier, Paul J., ed. 1 Peter: Hermeneia – A Critical and Historical Commentary on the
Bible. Minneapolis: Fortress Press, 1996.

9
Bigg, Charles. Epistles of St. Peter and St. Jude: The International Critical Commentary.
Edinburgh, UK: T & T. Clark LTD, 1978.

Clowney, Edmund. The Message of 1 Peter: The Bible Speaks Today. Leicester, England:
Inter-Varsity Press, 1994.

Dalton William J. “The Interpretation of 1 Peter 3:19 and 4:6: Light from 2 Peter.” Biblica 60
(1979): 547-555.

Dubis, Mark. 1 Peter, A Handbook on the Greek Text. Waco, TX: Baylor University Press,
2010.

Ekpendu Ikechi Chidi. “The Spirits in Prison: An Exegetical and Theological Study of 1
Peter 3:19.” RHSS 9 (2019): 23-27.

Feldmeier, Reinhard. The First Letter of Peter: A Commentary on the Greek Text. Trans.
Peter H. Davids. Waco, TX: Baylor University Press, 2008.

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Commentaries. Vol. 17. Nottingham, England: Inter-Varsity Press, 1988.

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Johnson Sherman E. “The Preaching to the Dead.” JBL 79 (1960): 48-51.

Kim, Myong. “Christ’s Proclamation to the Spirits in Prison in 1 Peter 3:19.” R&R 23 (2019):
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Greek New Testament. Nashville, TN: B&H Academic, 20

Michaels, J. Ramsey. 1 Peter: Word Biblical Commentary. Waco, TX: Word Books, 1988.

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Prison in 1 Peter 3:18-22.” TAJBT 23 (2022): 1-17.
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The New Testament. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic, 2012.

11