κοίμησις

Core Meaning & Semantic Range

The Greek word koímēsis, represented by G2838, is derived from a word meaning to sleep. It is defined as sleeping, i.e. (by implication) repose:--taking of rest. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible.

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

The single use of G2838 occurs in John 11:13. In this passage, Jesus speaks of the death G2288 of Lazarus. However, his disciples misunderstand his meaning, believing he is speaking literally about the taking of rest G2838 in sleep G5258. The word's sole function in scripture is to create this specific moment of contrast between a euphemism for death and the physical act of sleeping.

Related Words & Concepts

Several related words provide context for the meaning of G2838:

• G2288 thánatos (death): This is the reality of what happened to Lazarus, which Jesus describes using the metaphor of sleep. In John 11:13, the disciples fail to understand that Jesus is referring to death G2288 when he speaks of rest.
• G5258 hýpnos (sleep): This term is explicitly linked to the disciples' misunderstanding. They thought Jesus was speaking of "taking of rest in sleep" John 11:13, interpreting his words in a literal, physical sense.

Theological Significance

The theological weight of G2838 is derived entirely from its single contextual use.

• Euphemism for Death: The word's significance lies in its role as a euphemism. Jesus uses the concept of rest to refer to death G2288, a common figurative practice that the disciples initially fail to grasp John 11:13.
• Literal vs. Figurative Understanding: The disciples' confusion highlights a recurring theme where they interpret Jesus's words physically rather than spiritually or figuratively. They hear "taking of rest" G2838 and think of simple sleep G5258, missing the profound statement about death and the impending resurrection.

Summary

In summary, G2838 is a specialized term whose meaning is entirely defined by its one appearance in scripture. Used in John 11:13, it serves as a gentle metaphor for death, translated as taking of rest. Its significance is not in a broad theological concept but in the specific narrative moment where it illustrates the disciples' misunderstanding of Jesus's reference to death G2288.