Definition and Occurrence:

The concept of "deep sleep from the LORD" refers to a divinely induced state of unconsciousness or profound rest that God imparts to individuals for specific purposes. This phenomenon is distinct from natural sleep, as it is directly orchestrated by God to fulfill His divine will or to facilitate significant events in biblical narratives.

Biblical Instances:

1. Adam in the Garden of Eden:
The first instance of deep sleep from the LORD is found in Genesis 2:21, where God causes Adam to fall into a deep sleep in order to create Eve from his rib. The Berean Standard Bible states, "So the LORD God caused the man to fall into a deep sleep, and while he slept, He took one of the man’s ribs and closed up the area with flesh." This act signifies the divine origin of human companionship and the establishment of the marital relationship.

2. Abram's Covenant Experience:
In Genesis 15:12, Abram experiences a deep sleep as part of a covenantal encounter with God. The BSB records, "As the sun was setting, Abram fell into a deep sleep, and suddenly great terror and darkness overwhelmed him." This deep sleep precedes God's revelation of the future of Abram's descendants and the formalization of the Abrahamic Covenant, highlighting the solemnity and divine authority of the covenant.

3. Saul's Camp:
In 1 Samuel 26:12, a deep sleep from the LORD falls upon Saul and his men, allowing David to infiltrate the camp and take Saul's spear and water jug without being detected. The BSB notes, "So David took the spear and water jug by Saul’s head, and they departed. No one saw or knew about it, nor did anyone wake up; they all remained asleep because a deep sleep from the LORD had fallen on them." This event underscores God's protection over David and His sovereignty over the affairs of men.

4. Isaiah's Prophetic Warning:
Isaiah 29:10 speaks of a spiritual deep sleep as a form of judgment upon the people of Israel. The BSB states, "For the LORD has poured out on you a spirit of deep sleep; He has shut your eyes, the prophets; He has covered your heads, the seers." This metaphorical deep sleep represents spiritual blindness and insensitivity to God's messages, serving as a warning against disobedience and complacency.

Theological Significance:

The instances of deep sleep from the LORD in the Bible serve multiple theological purposes. They demonstrate God's direct intervention in human affairs, His ability to transcend natural processes, and His sovereign control over creation. These occurrences often precede significant revelations or divine actions, emphasizing the importance of God's plans and the necessity of human submission to His will.

Furthermore, the concept of deep sleep from the LORD can be seen as a metaphor for spiritual states, where individuals or groups may become insensible to divine truths due to disobedience or judgment. This highlights the need for vigilance and responsiveness to God's word and guidance.

Conclusion:

The biblical motif of deep sleep from the LORD illustrates the profound ways in which God interacts with humanity, both in physical and spiritual realms. Through these divinely induced states, God accomplishes His purposes, reveals His plans, and, at times, administers judgment, reminding believers of His omnipotence and the importance of aligning with His will.