Soul sleep

Soul sleep is the belief that after death, the individual’s soul enters a state of rest or unconsciousness until the resurrection or final judgment. Instead of immediately going to heaven or hell, the soul "sleeps" in an inactive state, awaiting future awakening. This view suggests death is like a temporary pause rather than an immediate transition to an eternal destination. Many interpret biblical passages as supporting this idea, emphasizing a period of unconscious waiting rather than conscious existence after death.