### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hýpnos**, represented by `{{G5258}}`, refers to **sleep**. It appears 6 times across 5 unique verses. The term's base definition encompasses both literal sleep and, figuratively, a state of spiritual torpor.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G5258}}` is applied in both literal and figurative contexts. It describes literal, physical states, such as Joseph being raised from **sleep** by an angel's command [[Matthew 1:24]], and Eutychus falling into a "deep **sleep**" during Paul's long sermon [[Acts 20:9]]. The word is also used metaphorically. In [[John 11:13]], Jesus speaks of death as a form of **sleep**, which the disciples misunderstand as "taking of rest in **sleep**." Theologically, it represents spiritual apathy, as believers are urged to awake out of **sleep** because their salvation is nearer than when they first believed [[Romans 13:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to clarify the meaning and context of `{{G5258}}`:
* `{{G1453}}` **egeírō** (to waken): This word serves as a direct contrast to sleep. It is used to call believers to **awake** out of the spiritual sleep of `{{G5258}}` [[Romans 13:11]] and also describes being raised from the dead.
* `{{G2288}}` **thánatos** (death): This term is explicitly linked to `{{G5258}}` when Jesus speaks of Lazarus's **death**, but the disciples think he is referring to sleep [[John 11:13]], illustrating how sleep is used as a metaphor for a temporary state of death.
* `{{G2702}}` **kataphérō** (to bear down): This verb describes the process of being overcome by drowsiness. In the account of Eutychus, he was "fallen into a deep sleep" and then "sunk down with **sleep**" due to being overcome [[Acts 20:9]].
* `{{G916}}` **baréō** (to weigh down): This describes the state of being "heavy with sleep," as Peter and the other disciples were during a moment of Christ's glory [[Luke 9:32]], indicating a physical weakness or burden.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5258}}` is significant, highlighting key spiritual concepts.
* **Spiritual Vigilance:** The most direct theological application is the call to awaken from spiritual torpor. [[Romans 13:11]] uses **sleep** to symbolize a state of spiritual unawareness or indifference, urging believers to be alert as the end times approach.
* **A Metaphor for Death:** By referring to death as **sleep** [[John 11:13]], the term frames death not as a final end but as a temporary state of rest from which one can be awoken, pointing toward the hope of resurrection.
* **Human Frailty:** The disciples being "heavy with **sleep**" [[Luke 9:32]] and Eutychus sinking into a deep **sleep** [[Acts 20:9]] illustrate human weakness and the limitations of the physical body, which can lead to missing divine moments or even physical danger.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5258}}` is a multifaceted term that extends beyond simple physical rest. It serves as a powerful biblical metaphor for spiritual apathy, a state from which believers must be roused. Furthermore, it is used to describe the nature of death as a temporary condition and to illustrate the reality of human weakness. The word encapsulates a call to be spiritually awake and vigilant.
TRV