ἀνάπαυσις (anapausis)
anapausis
rest
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 5 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun anapausis denotes a temporary cessation of labor or motion, bringing about a state of rest and refreshment. Its root implies pausing to recover strength after exertion, distinguishing it from permanent inactivity. In the New Testament, this word appears five times, primarily in the writings of Matthew, Luke, and Revelation.
It captures the relief that follows hard work or affliction, as seen when Jesus invites the weary to find rest (Matthew 11:28) or when the unclean spirit seeks a place of respite (Matthew 12:43). In Revelation, it describes the eternal break from torment for the faithful (Revelation 14:11), highlighting its theological weight as a promised relief from suffering.
Translators often render anapausis simply as "rest," but the Greek emphasizes the intermission itself—the pause that allows for recovery. This nuance helps readers understand that biblical rest is not merely inaction, but a purposeful cessation designed for renewal and peace.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word anapausis describes a temporary pause to recover strength after exertion. It is not permanent inactivity but a purposeful break designed for renewal. When Jesus invites us to take His yoke, He offers this kind of rest for our souls (Matthew 11:29). This promise acknowledges that life brings heavy burdens and fatigue.
In Revelation, the contrast is stark. Those who follow the beast have no rest day or night, while believers find relief from torment (Revelation 14:11). This highlights that biblical rest is a gift of peace amidst suffering. It reminds us that God sees our weariness and provides a sanctuary for our spirits.
We can trust in this divine pause. It is not a reward for perfect performance but a grace given to the weary. Let this truth encourage you today, knowing that true refreshment comes from Him alone.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 5 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- rest4×
- rest.1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἀνάπαυσιν4×
- ἀνάπαυσιν.1×
Key Verses
-
Matthew 11:29
Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart; and you will find rest for your souls.
This verse shows anapausis as a soul-deep relief found in Jesus' gentle yoke, contrasting with the heavy burdens of the world.
-
Matthew 12:43
“When an unclean spirit has gone out of a man, he passes through waterless places seeking rest, and doesn’t find it.
The unclean spirit seeks anapausis but finds none, illustrating that true rest cannot be found apart from God's presence.