### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **koimáō**, represented by `{{G2837}}`, is defined as to put to sleep, to slumber, or, figuratively, to decease. It appears 19 times across 18 unique verses, carrying a dual meaning that encompasses both literal sleep and a theological euphemism for the death of believers.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G2837}}` is used in both literal and figurative contexts. Literally, it describes physical rest, such as when Peter was **sleeping** between two soldiers [[Acts 12:6]] or when the disciples were found **sleeping** from sorrow [[Luke 22:45]]. Figuratively, it serves as a gentle term for death, particularly for the righteous. Stephen, at his martyrdom, "fell **asleep**" [[Acts 7:60]], and David, after serving his generation, "fell on **sleep**" [[Acts 13:36]]. This figurative use is most prominent in describing believers who have died, referred to as "them which are **asleep**" to offer comfort and hope [[1 Thessalonians 4:13]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller understanding of the concepts of sleep, death, and resurrection:
* `{{G1453}}` **egeírō** (to waken, rouse, raise): This word is the direct counterpart to the sleep of death. After the crucifixion, the bodies of saints which **slept** `{{G2837}}` **arose** `{{G1453}}` [[Matthew 27:52]].
* `{{G1852}}` **exypnízō** (to waken): This term is used specifically for rousing someone from slumber. Jesus uses it when he says he must go to **awake** Lazarus out of his sleep [[John 11:11]].
* `{{G599}}` **apothnḗskō** (to die off): This is the direct term for death, used in contrast to the hopeful euphemism of `{{G2837}}`. Paul states that we believe Jesus **died** `{{G599}}` and rose again, and so God will bring with Him those who **sleep** `{{G2837}}` in Jesus [[1 Thessalonians 4:14]].
* `{{G3498}}` **nekrós** (dead): This word describes the state of being dead. Christ is the firstfruits of those that **slept** `{{G2837}}`, having been risen from the **dead** `{{G3498}}` [[1 Corinthians 15:20]].
* `{{G1312}}` **diaphthorá** (decay, corruption): This term highlights a key distinction. David "fell on **sleep**" `{{G2837}}` and saw **corruption** `{{G1312}}`, but Christ, whom God raised again, saw no **corruption** `{{G1312}}` [[Acts 13:36-37]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2837}}` is significant, reframing the Christian understanding of death.
* **Death as Temporary Rest:** By describing death as sleep, the word removes its finality and terror for believers. Paul reassures the Thessalonians so they do not sorrow like those with no hope concerning those who are **asleep** [[1 Thessalonians 4:13]]. Those who have "fallen **asleep** in Christ" have not perished [[1 Corinthians 15:18]].
* **The Hope of Resurrection:** The metaphor of sleep inherently implies an awakening. Christ is presented as the "firstfruits of them that **slept**" [[1 Corinthians 15:20]], guaranteeing that believers will also be raised. Those who are **asleep** will not precede those who are alive at the Lord's coming, but will rise first [[1 Thessalonians 4:15-16]].
* **A Consequence of Sin:** In a different context, the term is used to describe a spiritual state. Paul warns the Corinthians that because of their unworthy participation in the Lord's supper, many among them are weak, sickly, and many **sleep** `{{G2837}}`, indicating a state of spiritual consequence that can lead to physical death [[1 Corinthians 11:30]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2837}}` is a rich theological term that operates on multiple levels. While it can denote simple physical slumber, its primary significance lies in its use as a metaphor for the death of believers. This reframes death not as a final end, but as a temporary state of rest, full of the hope of a future resurrection and awakening in Christ. It distinguishes the believer's passing from the hopelessness of a final, permanent state.
TRV