from a presumed derivative of νεύω; to nod, i.e. (by implication) to fall asleep; figuratively, to delay:--slumber.
Transliteration:nystázō
Pronunciation:noos-tad'-zo
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term νυστάζω (nystázō, `{{G3573}}`) carries a primary literal meaning derived from a presumed connection to νεύω (neúō), meaning "to nod" or "to incline the head." Thus, its most basic sense is "to nod off," "to be drowsy," or "to fall asleep." This implies an involuntary or semi-voluntary state of sleepiness. Beyond the literal, νυστάζω extends to a significant figurative meaning: "to delay," "to tarry," or "to linger." This semantic extension captures the idea of time passing slowly or an expected event being deferred, much like one might "slumber" through a delay. The word therefore encompasses both a physical state of unconsciousness and a temporal state of prolonged waiting or postponement.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term νυστάζω appears twice in the New Testament, each instance offering rich contextual insight:
1. **[[Matthew 25:5]]**: In the Parable of the Ten Virgins, it is stated, "While the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept." Here, νυστάζω describes the collective state of all ten virgins. The "slumbering" (νυστάζω) precedes their full "sleeping" (ἐκάθευδον, from `{{G2518}}` καθεύδω). This suggests a natural, perhaps unavoidable, drowsiness that comes with prolonged waiting. The significant point is not merely the act of sleeping, but the *consequence* of that state for the unprepared. The delay of the bridegroom caused a universal slumber, but only those who had prepared for the delay (with extra oil) were ready when he finally arrived. This highlights the danger of unpreparedness during a time of waiting, rather than condemning the act of slumber itself.
2. **[[2 Peter 2:3]]**: In a stark contrast, Peter declares concerning false teachers, "their judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not." Here, νυστάζω is used in a powerful negation ("slumbereth not"). It emphatically asserts that divine judgment and damnation are not delayed, nor are they dormant or inactive. God's justice is portrayed as ever-vigilant and certain, never "nodding off" or failing to execute its decree. This passage serves as a severe warning to those who lead others astray, assuring believers that divine reckoning is not postponed indefinitely.
### Related Words & Concepts
νυστάζω is closely related to other Greek terms for sleep and vigilance.
* **`{{G2518}}` καθεύδω (katheúdō)**: This term means "to sleep" and is often used literally, but also figuratively for spiritual apathy or death (e.g., [[Ephesians 5:14]]). While νυστάζω implies the onset of sleep or a state of drowsiness, καθεύδω denotes a state of full sleep. In [[Matthew 25:5]], the two are used together, suggesting a progression from drowsiness to deep sleep.
* **`{{G2837}}` κοιμάομαι (koimáomai)**: Meaning "to sleep," this word is frequently used euphemistically for death (e.g., [[John 11:11-13]]). It generally carries a more peaceful connotation than νυστάζω.
* **`{{G1127}}` γρηγορέω (grēgoreō)**: This is the antithesis of νυστάζω. It means "to be awake," "to watch," or "to be vigilant." It is a crucial concept in eschatological passages, often paired with admonitions to be ready for the Lord's return (e.g., [[Mark 13:37]]). The "slumbering" of νυστάζω stands in direct opposition to the "watchfulness" of γρηγορέω.
Thematically, νυστάζω connects to concepts of:
* Spiritual preparedness and vigilance.
* The timing of the Lord's return (Parousia).
* Divine justice and its certainty.
* Human frailty and tendency towards complacency.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of νυστάζω is profound, particularly within an eschatological framework. In [[Matthew 25:5]], the collective "slumbering" of the virgins underscores the reality of human limitations and the passage of time. It is not necessarily a sinful act, but rather a natural consequence of the bridegroom's delay. However, for the foolish virgins, this slumber proved catastrophic because it coincided with their lack of preparedness. The parable thus uses νυστάζω as a warning against spiritual complacency and a lack of foresight regarding the Lord's return. Believers are called not merely to *wait*, but to *wait prepared*. The "slumber" serves as a metaphor for a state of spiritual unreadiness that can lead to being shut out from the Kingdom.
Conversely, in [[2 Peter 2:3]], the negation of νυστάζω ("their damnation slumbereth not") emphasizes a critical aspect of God's character: His unwavering justice and active vigilance. Unlike human beings who may grow weary or delay, God's judgment is portrayed as ceaseless and certain. This provides both comfort to the righteous (that justice will prevail) and a severe warning to the wicked (that their reckoning is assured and imminent). The divine judgment does not "nod off" or forget; it is perpetually active and will be executed without fail.
Thus, νυστάζω serves as a dual theological pointer: a solemn warning to humanity against spiritual lethargy in the face of Christ's return, and a powerful affirmation of God's steadfast and active righteousness in judgment.
### Summary
The Greek term νυστάζω (`{{G3573}}`) literally means "to nod" or "to fall asleep," and figuratively "to delay" or "to tarry." Its two New Testament occurrences provide distinct yet interconnected theological insights. In [[Matthew 25:5]], it describes the natural "slumbering" of all the virgins during the bridegroom's delay, serving as a powerful metaphor for the dangers of spiritual unpreparedness and complacency in anticipation of Christ's return. It emphasizes the need for constant vigilance and readiness, even during periods of waiting. In stark contrast, [[2 Peter 2:3]] employs νυστάζω in a negation, declaring that divine judgment "does not slumber." This usage powerfully affirms God's unwavering justice, His constant vigilance, and the absolute certainty and imminence of His righteous reckoning. Together, these uses of νυστάζω call believers to a life of active watchfulness and trust in the ever-present and just hand of God.
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