Topical Encyclopedia
Lounging, in the context of biblical principles, refers to a state of idleness or laziness, often characterized by a lack of purposeful activity or diligence. The Bible addresses the concept of idleness and the importance of industriousness in various passages, emphasizing the value of hard work and the dangers of slothfulness.
Biblical References and Principles1.
Proverbs on Diligence and Slothfulness: The Book of Proverbs frequently contrasts the diligent with the slothful, highlighting the consequences of each lifestyle.
Proverbs 6:9-11 warns, "How long will you lie there, O sluggard? When will you get up from your sleep? A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest, and poverty will come upon you like a robber, and need like a bandit." This passage underscores the idea that excessive lounging can lead to poverty and lack.
2.
The Example of the Ant:
Proverbs 6:6-8 advises, "Go to the ant, O sluggard; consider her ways and be wise. Without a commander, without an overseer or ruler, she prepares her bread in summer and gathers her food at harvest." The ant is presented as a model of industriousness, working diligently without supervision, in contrast to the sluggard who lounges and neglects responsibilities.
3.
New Testament Teachings: The New Testament also addresses the issue of idleness. In
2 Thessalonians 3:10-12 , Paul writes, "For even while we were with you, we gave you this command: If anyone is unwilling to work, he shall not eat. Yet we hear that some of you are leading undisciplined lives and accomplishing nothing but being busybodies. We command and urge such people by our Lord Jesus Christ to begin working quietly to earn their own living." Here, Paul emphasizes the importance of working diligently and not falling into the trap of idleness.
4.
The Virtue of Hard Work:
Colossians 3:23 encourages believers, "Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, for the Lord and not for men." This verse highlights the spiritual dimension of work, suggesting that diligence in one's duties is a form of service to God.
5.
Warnings Against Idleness: In the parable of the talents (
Matthew 25:14-30), Jesus illustrates the importance of using one's gifts and opportunities wisely. The servant who buried his talent out of fear and laziness is rebuked and punished, while those who worked diligently with their talents are rewarded. This parable serves as a warning against the dangers of idleness and the failure to act responsibly with what one has been given.
Cultural and Historical ContextIn biblical times, the agrarian society placed a high value on hard work and productivity. The rhythms of planting and harvest required diligence and careful planning. Lounging or idleness was often associated with neglect of duty and irresponsibility, which could have dire consequences for individuals and their families.
Spiritual ImplicationsFrom a spiritual perspective, lounging can be seen as a neglect of one's God-given responsibilities and potential. The Bible encourages believers to be active and purposeful in their lives, using their time and talents for the glory of God and the benefit of others. The call to diligence is not merely about physical labor but encompasses spiritual vigilance and the pursuit of righteousness.
In summary, the biblical view of lounging is largely negative, associating it with slothfulness and a lack of discipline. The Scriptures advocate for a life of diligence, responsibility, and purposeful action, reflecting the character of God and fulfilling His purposes.
Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary
(
p. pr. & vb. n.) of Lounge.
Library
Outward Bound
... Then had come"still like a dream"a day of pouring rain, oflounging on the
main-deck, watching the engines, and watching, too (for it was calm at night...
Picture of a Pauline Church
... of that wicked ancient world. Hundreds of merchants and sailors from foreign
parts arelounging about. The gay young Roman, who...
Christmas Day
... Christmas Day. How will it dawn, the coming Christmas Day? To sailorslounging
on the lonely deck Beneath the rushing trade-wind? Or to...
Choosing Her Course
... them. The first time she ventured out on this service she saw a great,
drunken navvylounging against the door of a public-house....
Meanwhile, the Marquis Fontenelle had Been Nearly a Fortnight in...
... Dirty, frowsy women,"idle men,lounging along with the slouching gait which is common
to the 'unemployed' Italian,"half-naked children, running hither and...
The City of Gold
... Here, the bustle of the crowds, and the number of equipages, disturbed
and exasperated the southerner with hislounging habits....
Men and Mannerisms
... Leaning orlounging of any kind, bending at the knee, or other evidence of weakness
or weariness, may belong to the repose of the easy chair, but are hardly...
Perfection to be Sought.
... on top of it. What do you do with your Sunday? Is it wasted inlounging
about, ferreting rabbits, idle talking? If it be so, then...
Tee Advice of Hotep
... The lady was on the point of sharing her seat with one of her guests, when Har-hat,
who had beenlounging by himself on the parapet, sauntered over to his...
Trials to be Met.
... with some of the arts; but barbarous nations are acquainted with none of the
improvements that elevate society, and exhibit a state oflounging indolence and...
Thesaurus
Lounging (2 Occurrences)...Lounging (2 Occurrences).
... (See NIV). Amos 6:7 Therefore they will now go captive
with the first who go captive; and the feasting and
lounging will end. (WEB NIV)
...Lovable (2 Occurrences)
Loungers (1 Occurrence)
Lounge (1 Occurrence)
... in an indolent manner. 2. (n.) An idle gait or stroll; the state of reclining
indolently; a place oflounging. 3. (n.) A piece of...
Banqueting (6 Occurrences)
... RSV). Amos 6:7 Therefore they will now go captive with the first who go
captive; and the feasting andlounging will end. (See NAS)....
Sprawlers (1 Occurrence)
... Sprawlers (1 Occurrence). Amos 6:7 Therefore they will now go captive with the first
who go captive; and the feasting andlounging will end. (See NAS)....
Feasting (39 Occurrences)
... BBE). Amos 6:7 Therefore they will now go captive with the first who go
captive; and the feasting andlounging will end. (WEB NIV)....
Exiles (46 Occurrences)
... (See NAS RSV NIV). Amos 6:7 Therefore they will now go captive with the first who
go captive; and the feasting andlounging will end. (See NAS)....
Exile (101 Occurrences)
... (See NAS RSV NIV). Amos 6:7 Therefore they will now go captive with the first who
go captive; and the feasting andlounging will end. (See NAS RSV NIV)....
Resources
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