ἀναπαύω

I make to rest, give rest to, rest, take my ease

Definition

The verb ἀναπαύω primarily means 'to cause to rest' or 'to give rest' in its active voice, as when Jesus invites the weary to come to him for rest (Matthew 11:28). In its middle and passive forms, it means 'to rest,' 'to cease from labor,' or 'to take one's ease,' describing both physical rest for disciples (Mark 6:31) and a false spiritual ease in self-reliance (Luke 12:19). It also conveys the sense of 'refreshing' or 'being refreshed' in spirit by others, as seen in passages about mutual encouragement among believers (1 Corinthians 16:18, 2 Corinthians 7:13).

Biblical Usage

ἀναπαύω is used 12 times in the New Testament across Gospels and Epistles. In the Gospels, it often describes physical rest from labor (Mark 6:31) or a moment of cessation before a significant event (Matthew 26:45, Mark 14:41). In the Epistles, its usage shifts to metaphorical and relational 'refreshment,' where one person's presence or actions provide spiritual comfort and rest to another (1 Corinthians 16:18, Philemon 1:7). This pattern shows a development from literal cessation to a Christian ethic of mutual encouragement.

Etymology

Derived from the prefix ἀνά (ana, often implying 'up' or 'again') and the verb παύω (pauō, meaning 'to stop' or 'to cease'). The compound suggests causing something to cease or stop, hence 'to give rest' or 'to rest.' It is not from ἀν- (not, without) + 'apayō' as previously noted; this was an error. The root idea is a cessation of activity, leading to refreshment.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it captures both the physical and spiritual dimensions of rest offered in Christ. Jesus's invitation in Matthew 11:28 uses this term to promise soul-rest from the burdens of legalism and sin, connecting to the biblical theme of Sabbath and God's ultimate rest (Hebrews 4). The epistolary usage highlights the communal aspect of the Christian life, where believers are called to 'refresh' one another, embodying Christ's restorative work. Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by revealing rest as both a gift from Jesus and a practice within the church.

In the Greco-Roman world, rest (ἀνάπαυσις) was a valued concept, often associated with leisure from work and philosophical tranquility. For Jews, it carried deep Old Testament connotations of Sabbath, the Promised Land, and God's creation rest (Genesis 2:2-3). Jesus's use in Matthew 11:28 would resonate with both audiences, offering a rest that surpasses cultural ideals of leisure and fulfills the Jewish hope for ultimate divine respite from toil and strife.

ἀναπαύω (anapauō, G373) — to give rest or refresh, often with a focus on cessation and relief. καταπαύω (katapauō, G2664) — to cause to rest, settle, or bring to an end, used in Hebrews for God's Sabbath rest (Hebrews 4:4, 8). ἐπαναπαύομαι (epanapauomai, G1879) — to rest upon or rely on, used in Luke 10:6 for peace resting on a home. σαββατίζω (sabbatizō, G4520) — to keep Sabbath, emphasizing ceremonial observance (Hebrews 4:9).

Word Details

Scripture References