### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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.
### Related Words & Concepts
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.
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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