feminine of עָצֵל; (as abstractly) indolence; slothfulness.
Transliteration:ʻatslâh
Pronunciation:ats-law'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term עַצְלָה (ʻatslâh, `{{H6103}}`) is a feminine noun derived from the root עָצֵל (ʻatsêl, `{{H6102}}`), which means "sluggard" or "lazy person." While ʻatsêl refers to the person, ʻatslâh denotes the abstract quality or state of being lazy, specifically "indolence" or "slothfulness." It encapsulates the characteristic of being idle, unwilling to exert effort, or prone to procrastination. The semantic range of ʻatslâh thus focuses on the *condition* of idleness, highlighting a lack of industry, diligence, and energetic application, often leading to negative consequences. It is a state of spiritual, mental, or physical inactivity that is consistently presented in biblical wisdom literature as a detrimental vice.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term ʻatslâh appears exclusively in the book of Proverbs, where it is consistently portrayed as a negative attribute leading to undesirable outcomes. Its limited occurrences underscore its specific focus within the wisdom tradition on practical living and the consequences of moral choices.
1. **[[Proverbs 19:15]]**: "Deep sleep falls on a sluggard, and an idle soul will suffer hunger." Here, ʻatslâh is translated as "idle soul" or "indolent soul." The verse directly links slothfulness with two severe consequences: a metaphorical "deep sleep" representing a state of unproductive stupor, and literal hunger, implying material deprivation due to a lack of effort. The imagery powerfully conveys the self-inflicted hardship that accompanies a life of indolence.
2. **[[Proverbs 31:27]]**: "She looks well to the ways of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness." This verse describes the virtuous wife, a paragon of diligence and industry. The phrase "bread of idleness" (לחם עצלה) directly contrasts with her active and vigilant management of her household. It signifies sustenance obtained without effort, or the very fruit of a slothful life. The passage extols the virtues of hard work and careful stewardship, presenting ʻatslâh as the antithesis of the ideal character.
In both contexts, ʻatslâh is not merely a passive state but an active detriment that hinders well-being and productivity. The wisdom literature consistently warns against its dangers, emphasizing the direct correlation between diligence and prosperity, and between slothfulness and want.
### Related Words & Concepts
The concept of ʻatslâh is deeply intertwined with several other Hebrew terms and theological concepts:
* **עָצֵל (ʻatsêl, `{{H6102}}`)**: The noun for the "sluggard" or "lazy person," from which ʻatslâh is derived. This is the individual who embodies the state of ʻatslâh.
* **עָצַל (ʻātsal, `{{H6101}}`)**: The verbal root meaning "to be lazy," "to be sluggish," or "to hold back." This verb describes the action or state of being slothful.
* **רְמִיָּה (rᵉmîyāh, `{{H7423}}`)**: Often translated as "deceit" or "treachery," but can also imply "negligence" or "slackness," particularly in the context of work (e.g., [[Proverbs 10:4]]).
* **Antonyms**: The biblical text frequently contrasts ʻatslâh with virtues like diligence (חָרוּץ, chārûts, `{{H2742}}`), hard work (עָמָל, ʻāmāl, `{{H5999}}`), industry, and vigilance. The wise person is characterized by industriousness, while the fool is often associated with idleness.
* **Consequences**: Related concepts include poverty, ruin, hunger, and folly, which are frequently depicted as the direct results of ʻatslâh.
### Theological Significance
From a theological perspective, ʻatslâh represents a departure from God's design for humanity. God Himself is portrayed as active and industrious, creating the world and sustaining it. Humanity, created in God's image, was given the mandate to work and steward the earth ([[Genesis 2:15]]). Therefore, ʻatslâh is not merely a character flaw but a rejection of this divine calling to productivity and responsible stewardship.
Spiritually, ʻatslâh can manifest as apathy towards spiritual disciplines, neglect of prayer, study of the Word, or service. A "slothful soul" in a spiritual sense fails to grow, bear fruit, or fulfill its God-given purpose within the community of faith. Such spiritual indolence can lead to a hardening of the heart and a diminished capacity to discern and follow God's will.
Furthermore, ʻatslâh undermines the communal fabric. When individuals are slothful, they fail to contribute their share, becoming a burden on others and diminishing the overall well-being of the community. The biblical emphasis on diligence, even in mundane tasks, elevates work to a form of worship and obedience, reflecting a heart that honors God by faithfully stewarding time, talents, and resources. The negative consequences of ʻatslâh are thus presented not just as natural outcomes but as a reflection of divine disapproval for a life lived contrary to wisdom and righteousness.
### Summary
עַצְלָה (ʻatslâh, `{{H6103}}`) denotes the state or quality of indolence and slothfulness. Primarily found in the book of Proverbs, it consistently describes a detrimental condition of idleness and lack of effort. Biblical texts illustrate ʻatslâh as leading directly to negative consequences such as hunger, poverty, and a general state of unproductive stupor ([[Proverbs 19:15]]). It stands in stark contrast to diligence and industriousness, which are lauded as virtues essential for a flourishing life, as exemplified by the virtuous wife who "does not eat the bread of idleness" ([[Proverbs 31:27]]). Theologically, ʻatslâh is viewed as a departure from God's design for humanity's active stewardship and productivity, carrying significant implications for both physical well-being and spiritual vitality. It underscores the biblical call to purposeful effort and faithful engagement in all aspects of life.
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