Outer Darkness

A dual-use term (ἐξώτερος σκότος, exóteros skotos; Strong’s G1857, G4655) that applies to that place where spirits of the wicked are consigned after death; commonly known as “Spirit Prison,” a place where there is no light or glory. The expression is usually characterized by an additional phrase noting the presence of weeping, wailing, and gnashing of teeth (T&C 58:8; 101:19). Alma informs that the souls of the wicked remain in this state, as well as the righteous in paradise, while awaiting their resurrection (Alma 19:6 CE). But the term Outer Darkness also applies to that place or condition after the resurrection of the dead, because it is also a place without any light or glory. T&C 69 describes this place or condition of the sufferings of the ungodly (¶8) without mentioning the term outer darkness and tells us that Jesus saves all the works of his hands, except those sons of Perdition who deny the Father has revealed him. Wherefore, he saves all except them. And they go away into everlasting punishment, which is Endless punishment, which is Eternal punishment, to reign with the Devil and his angels in eternity where their worm dies not, which is their torment. And the end thereof, no man knows, neither was it revealed, neither will be revealed, unto none except to them (ibid.). In standard phrasing, the term Outer Darkness applies to the interim habitation or state of the wicked before the resurrection but also to the more enduring habitation or extreme consignment for the sons of Perdition or those who will not or cannot be saved. See also KINGDOMS.