There are several different words translated “idleness” in the Bible. Although there are some subtle differences in nuance, the general meaning of idleness is “undisciplined slackness.” Ecclesiastes 10:18 gives a graphic description of the results of idleness: “Through laziness, the rafters sag; because of idle hands, the house leaks.” Idleness is the opposite of diligence, which the Bible often commends (Proverbs 12:24; 13:4; Romans 12:11; Ephesians 4:28).