### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ánesis**, represented by `{{G425}}`, means **relaxation** or figuratively, **relief**. It appears 5 times in 5 unique verses in the Bible. It is variously translated as **rest**, **liberty**, or being **eased**, pointing to a release from pressure, trouble, or confinement.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G425}}` describes relief in several distinct contexts. It is promised as a future **rest** for those who are troubled, given at the revelation of the Lord Jesus [[2 Thessalonians 1:7]]. It also refers to an internal state of being; Paul speaks of having no **rest** in his spirit when he could not find Titus [[2 Corinthians 2:13]] and his flesh having no **rest** amidst external "fightings" and internal "fears" [[2 Corinthians 7:5]]. The word can also denote physical freedom, as when Paul was granted **liberty** while under guard [[Acts 24:23]]. Finally, it is used in a principle of fairness, so that some are not **eased** while others are burdened [[2 Corinthians 8:13]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define `{{G425}}` by providing its direct contrast:
* `{{G2346}}` **thlíbō** (to crowd, afflict, trouble): This word for being troubled or afflicted is the state from which **ánesis** provides relief. It is used to describe those who will be given **rest** [[2 Thessalonians 1:7]] and the condition of the apostles when they had no **rest** [[2 Corinthians 7:5]].
* `{{G2347}}` **thlîpsis** (pressure, tribulation, trouble): This noun describes the "pressure" or "burden" that is the opposite of being **eased** `{{G425}}`, as seen in the instruction not to ease some by burdening others [[2 Corinthians 8:13]].
* `{{G3163}}` **máchē** (a battle, fighting): This word for external conflict is cited as one of the reasons for having no **rest** [[2 Corinthians 7:5]], highlighting how outward strife prevents inner peace.
* `{{G5401}}` **phóbos** (alarm, fright, fear, terror): This term for internal anxiety is paired with "fightings" as a cause for the lack of **rest** [[2 Corinthians 7:5]], showing that **ánesis** is a release from both external and internal pressures.
### Theological Significance
The conceptual significance of `{{G425}}` is demonstrated through its application in various domains:
* **Eschatological Hope:** The word points to a future, ultimate **rest** promised to believers who endure tribulation. This relief is tied directly to the return of Christ [[2 Thessalonians 1:7]].
* **Psychological and Spiritual State:** **Ánesis** is not merely a physical state. Its absence is felt deeply in the spirit and flesh due to anxiety, worry, and conflict ([[2 Corinthians 2:13]], [[2 Corinthians 7:5]]).
* **Physical Freedom:** In a literal sense, it can mean a relaxation of physical bonds or imprisonment, as in the **liberty** granted to Paul [[Acts 24:23]].
* **Social and Economic Principle:** The concept is applied to communal responsibility, teaching that relief for one group should not come at the cost of burdening another, promoting balance and equity [[2 Corinthians 8:13]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G425}}` provides a multifaceted concept of relief. It is far more than simple inactivity; it is a release from specific pressures, whether they be the future promise of **rest** from persecution, the absence of inner turmoil, the granting of physical **liberty**, or the balancing of a communal burden. The word illustrates how the Bible defines peace and relief not just as an abstract ideal, but as a tangible release from affliction, fear, and inequity.
TRV