Topical Encyclopedia In the Bible, the concept of sleep is multifaceted, encompassing both the physical act of resting and a metaphorical state representing spiritual or moral conditions. Sleep is often depicted as a natural and necessary part of human life, but it also serves as a symbol for spiritual lethargy or death.Physical Sleep: Sleep is acknowledged as a God-given necessity for the restoration and rejuvenation of the body. In the creation narrative, God Himself rested on the seventh day, setting a precedent for the rhythm of work and rest (Genesis 2:2-3). The psalmist acknowledges the gift of sleep as a blessing from God: "In vain you rise early and stay up late, toiling for bread to eat—for He gives sleep to His beloved" (Psalm 127:2). This verse highlights the futility of excessive labor without reliance on God's provision and the peace that comes from trusting in Him. Metaphorical Sleep: Sleep is frequently used metaphorically in Scripture to describe a state of spiritual insensitivity or moral indifference. The apostle Paul exhorts believers to awaken from such a state: "And do this, understanding the occasion. The hour has come for you to wake up from your slumber, for our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed" (Romans 13:11). Here, sleep represents a lack of awareness or urgency regarding spiritual matters, and believers are called to be vigilant and alert. Sleep as Death: In several instances, sleep is used as a euphemism for death, emphasizing the temporary nature of death for believers. Jesus refers to the death of Jairus's daughter as sleep, saying, "The child is not dead, but asleep" (Mark 5:39). Similarly, when speaking of Lazarus, Jesus tells His disciples, "Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep; but I am going there to wake him up" (John 11:11). This language underscores the Christian hope in the resurrection, where death is not the end but a temporary state before eternal life. Warnings Against Spiritual Sleep: The New Testament contains several admonitions against spiritual sleepiness, urging believers to remain watchful and prepared for the Lord's return. Jesus warns, "Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour" (Matthew 25:13). The parable of the ten virgins illustrates the importance of being spiritually awake and ready, as those who were unprepared were shut out of the wedding feast. Rest in Christ: While physical sleep is necessary, the ultimate rest is found in Christ. Jesus invites those who are weary to find rest in Him: "Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest" (Matthew 11:28). This rest is not merely physical but encompasses spiritual peace and assurance, providing a deeper sense of restfulness that transcends the physical need for sleep. In summary, sleep in the Bible is a complex theme that addresses both the physical need for rest and the spiritual implications of being alert and prepared. It serves as a reminder of human limitations and the necessity of relying on God's provision and grace. Strong's Hebrew 3462. yashen -- to sleep... Word Origin a prim. root Definition to sleep NASB Word Usage chronic (1), fell asleep (1), remained long (1), sleep (10), sleeps (1), slept (5), supply (1). ... /hebrew/3462.htm - 6k 7901. shakab -- to lie down 7290a. radam -- to be in or fall into heavy sleep Library Wesley Sleeps in a Cellar The Peace-Bringer in the Natural World How those are to be Admonished who Sin from Sudden Impulse and ... The Peculiar Sleep of the Beloved God, the All-Seeing One God, the All-Seeing One He Describes the Circumspectness of his Intercourse With The Seed Growing Secretly. Matt. viii. 23, 24 Now Rests Her Soul in Jesu's Arms, Thesaurus Sleeps (20 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Sleeps (20 Occurrences). Matthew 9:24 he said, Withdraw, for the damsel is not dead, but sleeps. ... the child has not died, but sleeps. ... /s/sleeps.htm - 11k Died (348 Occurrences) Sleep (136 Occurrences) Shepherd (76 Occurrences) Die (401 Occurrences) Noon (30 Occurrences) Lamenting (8 Occurrences) Gathers (27 Occurrences) Withdraw (52 Occurrences) Intrigue (3 Occurrences) Resources What happens after death? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about soul sleep? | GotQuestions.org What is Adventism? What is a biblical view of the Adventist movement? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Sleeps (20 Occurrences)Matthew 9:24 Mark 4:27 Mark 5:39 Luke 8:52 John 11:12 Exodus 22:16 Leviticus 14:47 Leviticus 19:20 Leviticus 20:11 Leviticus 20:12 Leviticus 20:20 Deuteronomy 22:23 Deuteronomy 27:20 Deuteronomy 27:22 Deuteronomy 27:23 1 Kings 1:21 1 Kings 18:27 Proverbs 10:5 Isaiah 5:27 Hosea 7:6 Subtopics Related Terms |