Definition and Purpose:
Punishment in the biblical context refers to the imposition of a penalty for wrongdoing, serving as a means of justice, correction, and deterrence. It is an act that reflects God's holiness and justice, aiming to restore order and righteousness. The Bible presents punishment as both a divine prerogative and a human responsibility, emphasizing its role in maintaining moral and social order.

Divine Punishment:
God's punishment is depicted throughout Scripture as a response to sin and disobedience. It is both corrective and retributive, intended to lead individuals and nations to repentance and restoration. In Genesis 3, the first act of divine punishment occurs when Adam and Eve are expelled from the Garden of Eden due to their disobedience. This sets a precedent for the consequences of sin.

The Flood (Genesis 6-9) serves as a significant example of divine punishment on a global scale, where God judges the wickedness of humanity while preserving Noah and his family. Similarly, the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 19) illustrates God's judgment on cities steeped in sin.

The prophets frequently warned Israel of impending punishment for their idolatry and injustice. For instance, in Jeremiah 25:12, God declares, "But when the seventy years are complete, I will punish the king of Babylon and that nation, the land of the Chaldeans, for their iniquity, declares the LORD, and I will make it a desolation forever."

Human Administration of Punishment:
The Bible also outlines the role of human authorities in administering punishment. In the Mosaic Law, various penalties are prescribed for different offenses, ranging from restitution to capital punishment. Exodus 21:24-25 states, "Eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot, burn for burn, wound for wound, stripe for stripe," emphasizing the principle of proportional justice.

The New Testament acknowledges the role of governing authorities in executing punishment. Romans 13:4 affirms, "For he is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword in vain. He is the servant of God, an avenger who carries out God’s wrath on the wrongdoer."

Discipline and Correction:
Punishment is also seen as a form of discipline intended to correct and guide individuals. Proverbs 3:11-12 advises, "My son, do not despise the LORD’s discipline and do not loathe His reproof; for the LORD disciplines the one He loves, as does a father the son in whom he delights." This reflects the loving nature of divine correction, aimed at fostering growth and righteousness.

In the New Testament, Hebrews 12:6-7 reiterates this concept: "For the Lord disciplines the one He loves, and He chastises every son He receives. Endure suffering as discipline; God is treating you as sons. For what son is not disciplined by his father?"

Eternal Punishment:
The Bible also speaks of eternal punishment as the ultimate consequence for unrepentant sin. Jesus frequently warned of the reality of hell, a place of eternal separation from God. In Matthew 25:46, He states, "And they will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life."

Revelation 20:15 further underscores this, declaring, "And if anyone was found whose name was not written in the Book of Life, he was thrown into the lake of fire." This eternal punishment serves as a sobering reminder of the seriousness of sin and the necessity of repentance and faith in Christ.

Conclusion:
The act of punishment in the Bible is multifaceted, encompassing divine justice, human responsibility, and the ultimate consequences of sin. It serves as a means of correction, deterrence, and restoration, reflecting God's holiness and love.