### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun ὕπνος (hýpnos, `{{G5258}}`) primarily denotes physical "sleep," the natural state of rest for the body and mind. This literal meaning is straightforward, referring to the cessation of conscious activity. However, its semantic range extends significantly into the figurative, representing a state of spiritual "torpor," "lethargy," or "dullness." This figurative sense implies a lack of vigilance, awareness, or spiritual responsiveness, akin to being spiritually asleep or unconscious. The etymological connection suggested by Strong's, possibly to ὑπό (hypo, `{{G5259}}`) meaning "under" or "beneath," and the idea of "subsilience" (sinking down), subtly reinforces the notion of being overcome or subdued by this state, whether physical or spiritual.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term ὕπνος (hýpnos, `{{G5258}}`) appears in various contexts within the New Testament, illustrating both its literal and figurative dimensions:
* **Literal Sleep:**
* In the Gospels, ὕπνος describes Jesus' physical sleep during the storm on the Sea of Galilee ([[Matthew 8:24]], [[Mark 4:38]], [[Luke 8:23]]). This highlights His humanity and trust in the Father even amidst chaos, while simultaneously serving as a contrast to the disciples' fear and lack of faith.
* The account of Eutychus falling into a deep sleep during Paul's lengthy sermon uses ὕπνος ([[Acts 20:9]]), underscoring the physical reality of his condition before his miraculous restoration.
* **Figurative Spiritual Torpor:**
* Perhaps the most potent use of ὕπνος in its figurative sense is found in Paul's epistles, particularly in his eschatological exhortations. In [[Romans 13:11]], Paul urges believers, "And do this, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep; for now our salvation is nearer than when we first believed." Here, "sleep" signifies spiritual apathy, ignorance, or a lack of readiness for the Lord's return. The imperative is to awaken to a life of active righteousness and vigilance.
* Similarly, in [[Ephesians 5:14]], the call "Awake, you who sleep, and arise from the dead, and Christ will give you light" uses "sleep" as a metaphor for spiritual darkness and separation from Christ, paralleling it with spiritual death. It is a powerful summons to spiritual regeneration and active discipleship.
* In [[1 Thessalonians 5:6]], Paul admonishes, "Therefore let us not sleep, as others do, but let us watch and be sober." This contrasts the spiritual vigilance expected of believers with the spiritual slumber characteristic of the world. The subsequent verse ([[1 Thessalonians 5:7]]) then uses ὕπνος in its literal sense ("For those who sleep, sleep at night"), creating a poignant juxtaposition between physical rest and spiritual negligence.
* The parable of the ten virgins also employs this concept, as all the virgins "slumbered and slept" ([[Matthew 25:5]]) while awaiting the bridegroom, illustrating a shared human tendency towards spiritual complacency, yet distinguishing between those who were prepared and those who were not upon awakening.
### Related Words & Concepts
The concept of ὕπνος (hýpnos, `{{G5258}}`) is often contrasted with or related to several other significant Greek terms and theological concepts:
* **Antonyms/Contrasts:**
* γρηγορέω (grēgoreō, `{{G1127}}`): "to be awake, watchful, vigilant." This word is frequently paired with ὕπνος in exhortations to spiritual alertness (e.g., [[1 Thessalonians 5:6]]).
* νήφω (nēphō, `{{G3525}}`): "to be sober, temperate, clear-headed." This term emphasizes mental and spiritual clarity, the opposite of the dullness implied by spiritual sleep.
* ἀγρυπνέω (agrypneō, `{{G61}}`): "to be sleepless, to watch." This word denotes a state of active wakefulness, often in prayer or vigilance.
* **Related Terms:**
* κοιμάω (koimaō, `{{G2837}}`): "to sleep." This word is more commonly used for physical sleep in general and, notably, as a euphemism for death (e.g., "fallen asleep in Christ," [[1 Corinthians 15:18]]). While ὕπνος focuses on the *state* of sleep, κοιμάω can also refer to the *act* of sleeping or being laid to rest.
* καθεύδω (katheudō, `{{G2518}}`): "to sleep, to be asleep." Often used for a deep or sound sleep, as seen with the disciples in Gethsemane ([[Matthew 26:40]]).
* **Concepts:** Vigilance, spiritual alertness, preparedness for Christ's return, sobriety, spiritual lethargy, apathy, spiritual death, and the urgency of eschatological awareness. The call to awaken from ὕπνος is intrinsically linked to the believer's identity as a "child of light" and "child of the day" ([[1 Thessalonians 5:5]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of ὕπνος (hýpnos, `{{G5258}}`) lies predominantly in its figurative sense as spiritual torpor. It serves as a potent metaphor for the spiritual condition that believers are called to avoid and overcome.
1. **The Danger of Spiritual Complacency:** Spiritual sleep represents a perilous state for the believer. It signifies a lack of awareness regarding God's will, the signs of the times, and the urgency of the Gospel. This complacency can lead to spiritual stagnation, a failure to grow in Christ, and a susceptibility to temptation and deception.
2. **The Eschatological Imperative:** The New Testament consistently uses ὕπνος to underscore the eschatological urgency of the Christian life. Believers are exhorted to "wake up" because the time of salvation is near, and the day of the Lord is approaching. This awakening is not merely intellectual but involves a transformation of life, marked by righteousness, vigilance, and active participation in the Kingdom of God.
3. **A Call to Vigilance and Sobriety:** In contrast to the world which remains "asleep" in sin and ignorance, believers are called to be vigilant and sober. This means living with clear minds, exercising discernment, and actively pursuing holiness. It is a state of readiness for Christ's return, characterized by prayer, obedience, and faithful service.
4. **Implications for Discipleship:** The concept of spiritual sleep highlights the ongoing need for self-examination, repentance, and renewal in the life of a disciple. It is a reminder that faith is not a passive state but an active, dynamic relationship with God that requires constant vigilance against spiritual dullness and apathy.
### Summary
The Greek word ὕπνος (hýpnos, `{{G5258}}`) encompasses both the literal state of physical "sleep" and, more profoundly, the figurative condition of spiritual "torpor" or "lethargy." While its literal use describes mundane human experience, its figurative application carries significant theological weight, serving as a powerful metaphor for spiritual complacency and a lack of vigilance. The biblical witness consistently employs ὕπνος to impress upon believers the urgent necessity of awakening from spiritual slumber, living in active righteousness, and maintaining watchful readiness for the imminent return of Christ. This call to spiritual alertness is a fundamental aspect of Christian discipleship, urging believers to cast off the works of darkness and live as children of light, ever sober and prepared.
TRV