The "heart of the earth" in Matthew 12:40?

[rstrats]

Poll - What is the meaning of the "heart of the earth" in Matthew 12:40?

 

[Gregory Thompson]

I did a mini search, but it's inconclusive if the people of that day knew that "the direct centre of the object" earth was a lake of molten lava.

 

[Brian Mcnamee]

Hi Jesus told the story of Lazarus and the rich man and when it says in other places Jesus descended he went and redeemed all those in with Lazarus and they were among the multitude in heaven proclaiming worthy is the Lamp to take the scroll and open its seals for He has redeemed us by His blood out of every tribe tongue kindred and nation and we shall reign with Him upon the earth.

 

[Maria Billingsley]

Poll - What is the meaning of the "heart of the earth" in Matthew 12:40?

King David used a similar description for his birth. I believe there is more to its meaning or even a completely different one than representing the tomb. Perhaps a holding place before a new birth, like the womb in David's case or in the belly of a whale in Jonah's case.
Psalms
I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.
15 My substance was not hid from thee, when I was made in secret, and curiously wrought in the lowest parts of the earth.

 

[TedT]

What is the meaning of the "heart of the earth" in Matthew 12:40?

Sheol...

Perhaps a holding place before a new birth,

Perhaps Sheol is not a metaphor for the womb or the fish but the womb and the fish are (physical) metaphors (ie, types) for Sheol...

 

[Clare73]

Poll - What is the meaning of the "heart of the earth" in Matthew 12:40?

Under its dirt.