### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻatslâh**, represented by `{{H6103}}`, defines **indolence** or **slothfulness**. It is a feminine abstract noun that appears **2 times** in **2 unique verses**, offering a concise but potent warning against the consequences of idleness.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H6103}}` is directly linked to negative outcomes. Proverbs connects it to a state of spiritual and physical lethargy, stating that **slothfulness** casts one into a "deep sleep" `{{H8639}}`, which results in an "idle soul" that will "suffer hunger" `{{H7456}}` [[Proverbs 19:15]]. Ecclesiastes uses a powerful physical metaphor, explaining that through **slothfulness** a "building" `{{H4746}}` will decay, and through "idleness of the hands" `{{H3027}}` a "house" `{{H1004}}` will drop through [[Ecclesiastes 10:18]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help illustrate the condition and consequences of slothfulness:
* `{{H8639}}` **tardêmâh** (deep sleep): This term for a lethargy or trance is presented as a direct result of slothfulness, a state that "casteth" `{{H5307}}` a person into inactivity [[Proverbs 19:15]].
* `{{H4355}}` **mâkak** (to decay): This word describes the physical ruin that results from indolence. Just as a building is brought low and decays from neglect, so too are the affairs of the slothful [[Ecclesiastes 10:18]].
* `{{H7423}}` **rᵉmîyâh** (idle, remissness, deceitful): This word is used to describe the "soul" `{{H5315}}` that suffers hunger as a result of slothfulness, highlighting a state of remissness [[Proverbs 19:15]].
* `{{H7456}}` **râʻêb** (to hunger): This is the ultimate consequence for the idle soul, a state of famishing that serves as a direct outcome of slothfulness [[Proverbs 19:15]].
### Theological Significance
The concept of `{{H6103}}` carries significant weight, illustrating a clear principle of cause and effect in scripture.
* **A State of Stupor:** Slothfulness is not merely laziness but a condition that leads to a "deep sleep" `{{H8639}}`, suggesting a profound lack of awareness and responsiveness [[Proverbs 19:15]].
* **Inevitable Decay:** The imagery of a decaying building `{{H4746}}` and a leaky house `{{H1004}}` demonstrates that inaction inevitably leads to the ruin and collapse of one's responsibilities and resources [[Ecclesiastes 10:18]].
* **Physical and Spiritual Want:** Indolence culminates in hunger, affecting the very "soul" `{{H5315}}`. This warns that a life of ease and inaction will ultimately lead to a state of want and lack [[Proverbs 19:15]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6103}}` serves as a stark scriptural warning. Though used infrequently, it powerfully communicates that slothfulness is not a passive state but an active force of destruction. It leads to a spiritual lethargy akin to a deep sleep and results in the tangible decay of one's household and the eventual suffering of hunger, making it a condition to be diligently avoided.
TRV