from κατανύσσω; a prickling (sensation, as of the limbs asleep), i.e. (by implication, (perhaps by some confusion with νεύω or even with νύξ)) stupor (lethargy):--slumber.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **katányxis**, represented by `{{G2659}}`, describes a stupor or lethargy, translated as **slumber**. Its root definition suggests a prickling sensation, similar to a limb falling asleep, which by implication leads to a state of lethargy. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical use of `{{G2659}}` is found in [[Romans 11:8]], which states, "According as it is written, God hath given them the spirit of **slumber**, eyes that they should not see, and ears that they should not hear;) unto this day". In this context, **katányxis** is not a natural state of rest but a divinely imparted "spirit of **slumber**". This spiritual stupor is given by God `{{G2316}}` and results in a profound inability to perceive spiritual truth, a condition that endures "unto this **day**" `{{G4594}}` `{{G2250}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning and impact of this spiritual **slumber**:
* `{{G1325}}` **dídōmi** (to give): This verb is crucial, as God is the one who has **given** the spirit of slumber. While God is often the giver of good things, such as His Son [[John 3:16]] or peace [[John 14:27]], this verse shows that "to give" can also be an act of judgment.
* `{{G4151}}` **pneûma** (a spirit): This word defines what is given—a "spirit of **slumber**". This term stands in stark contrast to the "spirit of power, and of love, and of a sound mind" that God gives to believers [[2 Timothy 1:7]], highlighting the negative, disabling nature of **katányxis**.
* `{{G191}}` **akoúō** (to hear): The state of slumber directly renders the spiritual senses useless. The passage explicitly links the condition to having "ears that they should not **hear**" [[Romans 11:8]], preventing the reception of God's word, a theme contrasted in verses that urge believers to be "swift to **hear**" [[James 1:19]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2659}}` is significant, centering on themes of divine judgment and spiritual perception.
* **Divine Judgment**: The source of the "spirit of **slumber**" is explicitly identified as **God** `{{G2316}}`, who has **given** `{{G1325}}` it. This frames the state of stupor not as a simple human failure but as a direct, sovereign act of divine judgment [[Romans 11:8]].
* **Spiritual Insensibility**: The primary effect of `{{G2659}}` is a deep numbing of spiritual faculties. It results in having **eyes** `{{G3788}}` that do not **see** `{{G991}}` and **ears** `{{G3775}}` that do not **hear** `{{G191}}`. This is a state of being actively prevented from perceiving divine communication.
* **Enduring Condition**: The phrase "unto this **day**" [[Romans 11:8]] emphasizes that this spirit of **slumber** is not a temporary lapse but can be a persistent and lasting condition, a prolonged state of spiritual lethargy and blindness.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2659}}` **katányxis**, though appearing only once, is a powerful word denoting a profound spiritual **slumber**. Its singular use in scripture defines this condition as a "spirit" given by God in an act of judgment, causing a deep-seated inability to see or hear spiritual realities. It serves as a solemn reminder of the consequences of spiritual resistance and illustrates a state where the capacity for divine perception is actively withheld.
TRV