ἀναπαύω is a Greek verb meaning “to rest” or “to cease from labor.” It encompasses a range of meanings related to physical, mental, or spiritual rest. The term can denote the act of resting from work, finding relief from distress, or enjoying a period of tranquility. It is used in both literal and figurative contexts to describe a cessation from activity or an experience of peace.

Detailed Overview with Concordances

1. BDAG (A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament and Other Early Christian Literature):

• BDAG defines ἀναπαύω as “to rest” or “to cease from labor,” indicating its use in contexts where one stops from work or activity to rest. The lexicon also notes its application in a metaphorical sense, such as finding relief or experiencing tranquility. It highlights that ἀναπαύω can describe both physical rest and a deeper, spiritual sense of peace.

2. LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones Greek-English Lexicon):

• LSJ describes ἀναπαύω with meanings including “to rest” or “to give rest,” emphasizing its usage to denote both physical and metaphorical rest. The lexicon includes examples of the term used to describe the act of resting from labor or finding a period of relief and relaxation.

3. Thayer’s Greek Lexicon:

• Thayer defines ἀναπαύω as “to give rest” or “to cause to cease from labor.” The lexicon explains that it can refer to physical rest, such as resting from work or exertion, as well as a metaphorical sense of finding peace or relief from distress. Thayer highlights that ἀναπαύω implies both a literal cessation of activity and a deeper sense of peace or restoration.

4. Strong’s Concordance:

• Strong’s Concordance lists ἀναπαύω as G373, translating it as “to rest” or “to cease.” It outlines its use in various contexts, including physical rest from labor, spiritual relief, and a state of peace or cessation from distress. Strong’s emphasizes the term’s versatility in describing both literal and metaphorical forms of rest.

Summary:
ἀναπαύω (G373) is a verb meaning “to rest” or “to cease from labor,” used to describe both physical and metaphorical rest. It signifies a cessation of activity or a state of tranquility, encompassing physical relaxation, mental relief, and spiritual peace. Concordances and lexicons agree on its application to both literal rest and deeper forms of peace, reflecting its use in diverse contexts of rest and relief.