### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **katápausis**, represented by `{{G2663}}`, defines a state of **rest**. According to its base definition, it signifies a "reposing down" or an "abode." It appears **9 times** across **8 unique verses** in the Bible, primarily discussing a promised state of rest that one enters into.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G2663}}` is used primarily in the context of God's promised **rest**. It is a place or state that one must **enter** into [[Hebrews 4:1]]. A central theme is God's oath, sworn in his **wrath**, that a generation would not enter His **rest** due to their unbelief ([[Hebrews 3:11]], [[Hebrews 3:18]]). The concept is also linked to a divine dwelling place, as when the Lord asks, "what is the place of my **rest**?" [[Acts 7:49]]. Believers are therefore encouraged to be diligent to enter this **rest** and not fall short [[Hebrews 4:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of divine **rest**:
* `{{G2664}}` **katapaúō** (to settle down... cease, (give) rest(-rain)): As the root verb for `{{G2663}}`, this word signifies the act of ceasing from labor. One who enters God's **rest** has **ceased** from their own works, just as God did [[Hebrews 4:10]].
* `{{G1525}}` **eisérchomai** (to enter): This action is inextricably linked to the promise of **rest**. Believers are commanded to labor to **enter** into that rest [[Hebrews 4:11]], and failure to do so is a central theme [[Hebrews 3:18]].
* `{{G544}}` **apeithéō** (to disbelieve (wilfully and perversely)... disobedient, obey not): This term defines the barrier to entering God's **rest**. It was promised only to believers and denied to "them that **believed not**" [[Hebrews 3:18]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2663}}` is significant, particularly in the book of Hebrews.
* **A Divine Promise and Pattern:** The **rest** is presented as a specific promise from God, patterned after His own **rest** from the works of creation [[Hebrews 4:10]]. It is a spiritual state that believers are to enter into by faith [[Hebrews 4:3]].
* **The Condition of Faith:** Entry into this **rest** is not guaranteed. It is explicitly denied to those who are disobedient or do not believe [[Hebrews 3:18]]. Diligence is required to enter, lest one fall by the same "example of unbelief" [[Hebrews 4:11]].
* **A Warning Sealed by an Oath:** The seriousness of failing to enter is underscored by God's solemn oath. He **sware** `{{G3660}}` in His **wrath** `{{G3709}}` that the generation in the wilderness would not enter His **rest**, establishing a powerful warning for all future believers [[Hebrews 3:11]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2663}}` denotes more than physical repose; it represents a promised spiritual **abode** with God. Its usage, primarily in Hebrews, frames it as a divine inheritance that must be entered into through diligent faith. The concept of **katápausis** serves as a crucial theological anchor, contrasting the consequences of unbelief with the reward of ceasing from one's own works to enter the ultimate **rest** provided by God.
TRV