Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: The concept of sleep as a metaphor for death is also present in the Hebrew Scriptures. Corresponding Hebrew terms include:
• Strong's Hebrew 3462 (יָשֵׁן, yashen): Meaning "to sleep," used metaphorically for death in passages like Job 14:12.
• Strong's Hebrew 7901 (שָׁכַב, shakab): Meaning "to lie down," often used in the context of death, as seen in 2 Samuel 7:12.

This entry provides a comprehensive understanding of κοίμησις, emphasizing its theological implications and its role in expressing the Christian hope of resurrection.

Usage: The word κοίμησις is used in the New Testament to describe the state of death, particularly in the context of the hope of resurrection. It is a term that conveys the peaceful and temporary nature of death for those who are in Christ.

Context: • Contextual Overview: In the New Testament, κοίμησις is used to describe the death of believers, highlighting the Christian hope in the resurrection. This metaphorical use of "sleep" for death is rooted in the belief that just as sleep is followed by awakening, so death will be followed by resurrection.
• Theological Significance: The use of κοίμησις underscores the Christian doctrine of the resurrection of the dead. It reflects the early Christian understanding that death is not the end but a transition to eternal life. This perspective is evident in passages where believers are described as having "fallen asleep" in Christ, indicating their secure hope in being raised to life again.
• Biblical References: While κοίμησις itself is not frequently used, its root verb κοιμάω appears in several key passages. For example, in 1 Thessalonians 4:13-14 (BSB), Paul writes, "Brothers, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you will not grieve like the rest, who are without hope. For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, we also believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in Him."
• Cultural and Historical Context: In the Greco-Roman world, sleep was a common euphemism for death, but the Christian use of the term carried a distinct hope of resurrection. This hope was a defining feature of early Christian belief, setting it apart from other contemporary views on death and the afterlife.