Bible Dictionary
BENEATH
Beneath means under or below. In John 8:23, “from beneath” refers primarily to the earthly, worldly sphere in contrast with heaven, though the language may also carry a deeper spiritual implication.
Definition
Beneath is an adverb meaning “under” or “below.” It may describe position, earthly existence, or a condition contrasted with what is above.
Biblical Usage
In John 8:23, “from beneath” is interpreted by the following statement, “of this world,” so that earth rather than hell is the immediate meaning, although a more fearful implication is not excluded.
Historical Bible Dictionaries
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>be-neth': The adverb for "under" (kato). In Joh 8:23, the words "ye are from beneath," suggest hell in contrast to heaven. But the succeeding clause, "ye are of this world," gives the key for the interpretation. Earth, not hell, is expressed, although "that more awful meaning surely is not excluded" (Alford).</p>