What does the darkness symbolize in Christian theology?

The darkness during Christ's crucifixion carries rich theological significance. It represents God's judgment upon sin, and in this context, it becomes a tangible symbol of hell itself. Just as the ninth plague in Egypt, which brought darkness that could be felt (Exodus 10:21-22), foreshadowed judgment, so too does the darkness at Calvary reveal the horrific consequences of sin. This was no ordinary darkness but a supernatural one, indicative of the spiritual desolation Jesus faced as He bore the penal consequences of sin on behalf of humanity. It reminds Christians of the dire weight of sin and the resultant separation from God that Christ overcame through His atoning work.