The Hebrew word ʻâtsal, represented by H6101, is a primitive root used to convey the idea of being indolent or slack. Its base definition is to lean idly. This specific term appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse within the biblical text, making its single usage particularly significant.
The sole appearance of H6101 is in Judges 18:9, where it functions as a direct command against inaction. After spies report that a certain land is "very good," they urge their people to move forward, asking, "and are ye still? be not slothful to go, and to enter to possess the land." In this context, to be "slothful" is to fail to act upon a confirmed opportunity and to remain idle when decisive movement is required to seize a promised inheritance.
Several related words from its context in Judges 18:9 help clarify the meaning of H6101:
- H2814 châshâh (be still): Defined as to hush or keep quiet, this word is used in the rhetorical question "are ye still?" immediately preceding the command not to be slothful. It equates idleness with a state of silence and inactivity when action is called for.
- H6965 qûwm (arise): This word means to rise or get up. The command to "Arise" in Judges 18:9 serves as the direct antidote to being slothful, calling the people to abandon their idle state and begin their mission. The call to "Arise, shine" in Isaiah 60:1 carries a similar sense of moving into a new state of purpose.
- H3423 yârash (possess): This term means to occupy or inherit. It represents the ultimate goal that slothfulness would prevent. The command is to move forward "to enter to possess the land," highlighting that indolence is a barrier to receiving what is available.
The theological weight of H6101, despite its single use, is substantial in demonstrating the biblical view on action and faith.
- An Obstacle to Promise: To be slothful is presented as a direct impediment to possessing a blessing. The land is seen and declared "very good" Judges 18:9, but this potential remains out of reach without the decision to overcome idleness.
- The Rejection of Inaction: The word is framed as the opposite of the proper response to a good opportunity. It contrasts with the call to "Arise" H6965, "go" H3212, and "enter" H935, showing that passivity is unacceptable when a clear path is presented.
- A Call to Active Faith: The narrative in Judges 18:9 links seeing a good thing with the responsibility to pursue it. Being "not slothful" is therefore an expression of active trust in the report and the courage to act upon it, a principle seen when people are called to "walk" in the "good way" Jeremiah 6:16.
In summary, H6101 ʻâtsal provides a focused and powerful definition of slothfulness. Though appearing only once, its context in Judges 18:9 defines it not merely as laziness, but as a critical failure to act upon a known good. It serves as a warning against the kind of idleness that prevents one from rising up to possess the promises and opportunities that have been clearly seen.
TRV