### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **nōthrós**, represented by `{{G3576}}`, means **sluggish** or **lazy**. It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible. Figuratively, the term can also describe someone as being stupid or **dull**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{G3576}}` is used exclusively in the book of Hebrews to describe a state of spiritual lethargy. In one instance, the author states it is difficult to explain deeper truths because the audience has become **dull** of hearing [[Hebrews 5:11]]. In another, believers are explicitly warned not to be **slothful**, but instead to be followers of those who, through faith and patience, inherit God’s promises [[Hebrews 6:12]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{G3576}}` in its biblical context:
* `{{G1096}}` **gínomai** (to become): This word is used to describe the state of having **become** dull [[Hebrews 5:11]] and is part of the command not to **be** slothful [[Hebrews 6:12]], highlighting that this is a condition one can fall into or choose to avoid.
* `{{G189}}` **akoḗ** (hearing): This is directly paired with `{{G3576}}` in [[Hebrews 5:11]] to describe being "dull of **hearing**." This specifies the nature of the dullness as an inability to receive and process spiritual truth, which is contrasted with contexts where **hearing** is the very source of faith [[Romans 10:17]].
* `{{G3115}}` **makrothymía** (patience): This quality is presented as an antidote to being slothful. Believers are to inherit the promises through faith and **patience** [[Hebrews 6:12]], showing that perseverance is the opposite of spiritual laziness.
* `{{G4102}}` **pístis** (faith): Paired with patience, **faith** is the active principle that opposes being slothful. [[Hebrews 6:12]] urges believers to imitate those whose **faith** leads to inheriting the promises, a concept reinforced by the statement that without **faith** it is impossible to please God [[Hebrews 11:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3576}}` serves as a pointed warning against spiritual complacency.
* **Hindrance to Maturity:** Being **dull** of hearing is presented as a direct obstacle to spiritual growth. It prevents believers from moving beyond foundational principles to understand more profound truths [[Hebrews 5:11]].
* **A Barrier to Inheritance:** The command not to be **slothful** is tied directly to inheriting the promises. This suggests that spiritual laziness or inaction can impede a believer from experiencing the fullness of God's blessings [[Hebrews 6:12]].
* **A Call to Active Imitation:** The alternative to being **slothful** is to become **followers** `{{G3402}}` of the faithful. This frames the Christian life not as passive belief but as an active imitation of those who demonstrated enduring faith and patience [[Hebrews 6:12]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3576}}` is a significant term used to caution against a dangerous spiritual condition. Though used only twice, it powerfully contrasts the lazy or dull believer with the active, patient, and faithful follower who is able to receive deep spiritual teaching and inherit all that God has promised. It underscores the biblical call to a vigilant and persevering faith.
TRV