κοίμησις (koimēsis)
koimēsis
sleep
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun koimēsis refers to the act of lying down or resting, specifically using the imagery of sleep. In the New Testament, it appears only once, in John 11:13, where Jesus speaks about Lazarus. While the word literally means "sleep," the context clarifies that Jesus is describing physical death.
This usage highlights a distinctive feature of Johannine theology. By choosing this term for death, the text presents dying not as an end, but as a temporary state of rest from which one will be awakened. This metaphorical use softens the finality of death, framing it within the hope of resurrection.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word koimēsis offers a gentle lens through which to view the end of life. In John 11:13, Jesus uses this term for Lazarus’s death, choosing imagery that feels familiar and peaceful rather than frightening. By calling it sleep, He frames mortality not as a permanent closing of doors, but as a temporary rest from earthly toil.
This perspective brings comfort to those grieving. It suggests that death is a pause, not an end. The hope lies in the belief that just as sleep naturally gives way to waking, this state of rest will be followed by resurrection. It invites us to look beyond the immediate pain of loss toward the promise of renewal.
When we face the reality of mortality, this language helps soften the sharp edges of finality. It reminds believers that their loved ones are in a state of waiting, preserved in God’s care until the morning comes. This view encourages a quiet confidence in the power of Christ to restore life.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- rest1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- κοιμήσεως1×
Key Verses
-
John 11:13
Now Jesus had spoken of his death, but they thought that he spoke of taking rest in sleep.
This verse clarifies that Jesus used 'sleep' as a metaphor for death, which His disciples initially misunderstood literally.