The New Testament doesn't explicitly describe what Jesus did during the time between his death and resurrection. There are, however, some scriptures that have led to different interpretations and beliefs about this period.
Here are some key points and common interpretations:
* The Apostles' Creed: This early Christian statement of faith includes the phrase "He descended into hell" (or "He descended to the dead"). This has been interpreted in various ways.
* 1 Peter 3:18-20: This passage speaks of Jesus, "being put to death in the flesh but made alive in the spirit," and that "he went and proclaimed to the spirits in prison." This is often interpreted as Jesus preaching to those who had died before him, offering them an opportunity to believe. Some interpret "spirits in prison" as referring specifically to those who died during the time of Noah's flood.
* Other Interpretations:
* Triumphant Descent: Some view the descent into hell as a triumphant event where Jesus conquered death and Satan, and freed the righteous souls held in "Abraham's bosom" or "paradise."
* Experiencing Death: Others believe that during this time, Jesus fully experienced the state of death as a human being.
* Resting in the Tomb: Some believe the phrase "descended into hell" is simply a reference to Jesus being in the realm of the dead, without any specific activity.
Ultimately, the Bible is not definitive on this matter, and different Christian denominations and individuals hold different beliefs based on their interpretations of scripture.