Laziness is defined as a form of sluggishness, idleness, and lack of motivation toward work. Signs of laziness in a person include not starting a task at all or constantly postponing it to another time.
Definition of Laziness in Language and Terminology
A lazy person is someone who is unwilling to work or avoids engaging in tasks. In Arabic, the term "kasal" is synonymous with laziness. In the terminology of ethics, not every form of reluctance or disinterest in work is considered laziness. Sometimes, physical weakness or illness causes someone to avoid work. In other cases, a person may lack motivation due to not finding a task meaningful or important. However, once the importance of the task becomes clear to them, they pursue it energetically and thoroughly. Therefore, in educational sciences, a lazy person is defined as someone who, despite having no physical weaknesses, delays important tasks or performs them only reluctantly and under compulsion.
Laziness in the Qur'an
The Qur’an criticizes laziness, especially when it comes to righteous deeds and worship. Laziness is listed among the characteristics of hypocrites. Two verses use the word "kusala" (sluggish ones) to describe them:
“The hypocrites seek to deceive Allah, but it is He who deceives them. When they stand for prayer, they stand lazily, showing off to the people and not remembering Allah except a little.”
(Surah An-Nisa, 4:142)
“Nothing prevented their donations from being accepted except that they disbelieved in Allah and His Messenger, and they do not perform prayer except lazily, and they do not give in charity except unwillingly.”
(Surah At-Tawbah, 9:54)
Since prayer is a means of building a connection with God and expressing humility and servitude, hypocrites, who are disbelievers inwardly, only perform it with reluctance and lifelessness. Similarly, those who pray out of habit, without understanding or valuing its spiritual depth, treat prayer as a burden rather than a blessing, resembling the hypocrites in their lack of sincerity and enthusiasm.
Laziness in Hadith
In the sayings of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and the Imams from his family (peace be upon them), laziness is condemned. They consistently advised their followers to avoid this negative trait.
The Prophet (PBUH) advised Imam Ali (AS):
“O Ali, avoid two things: being disheartened and being lazy...”
This advice extends to all those seeking comfort in both this life and the next. The lifestyles of the infallible leaders show constant hard work, effort, and striving to earn God’s pleasure—never relying on others or showing laziness.
Islamic traditions state that procrastination is a sign of laziness, and laziness harms both one’s religious and worldly life.
According to Afghan Shia News Agency (Shafaqna), as reported by ISNA, Persian culture defines laziness as love of comfort, idleness, carelessness, and neglect—all of which are unacceptable in Islam. Laziness is of two types: individual and social, both of which can severely damage human life. In contrast, responsibility and strong willpower are so highly valued in Islam that the “Divine Trust” is often interpreted in exegeses as the acceptance of responsibility.
The Prophet (PBUH) described the signs of a lazy person as follows:
“The signs of laziness are four: procrastination in action, which leads to delay and neglect; neglect, which leads to sin; and spiritual deadness.”
Imam Ali (AS) said:
“Firm resolve does not coexist with indulgence. How many plans made during the day are ruined by night sleep, and how many dreams fade away in the darkness of forgetfulness.”
“Spend your energy on things you truly need, and do not pursue what is of no benefit to you.”
1. Avoiding Sins:
Sins are like fire that burns the heart, drawing God’s wrath. Whoever incurs His wrath will face clear loss.
“But whoever earns My wrath has certainly fallen.” (Surah Ta-Ha, 20:81)
2. Engaging in Daily Devotions:
Practices like dhikr (remembrance), prayer, seeking forgiveness, and reciting the Qur’an strengthen faith and revive motivation.
“It is He who made the night and the day in succession for whoever desires to remember or to be grateful.” (Surah Al-Furqan, 25:62)
“O you wrapped in garments, arise to pray at night, except for a little — half the night, or a little less or more — and recite the Qur’an in a measured tone. We will soon send you a weighty message.” (Surah Al-Muzzammil, 73:1–5)
3. Valuing Blessed Times for Worship:
Taking advantage of mornings, evenings, and late-night hours for worship boosts mental clarity and willpower. The Prophet (PBUH) said:
“Act moderately, seek closeness, and benefit from early mornings, evenings, and part of the night.”
4. Avoiding Extremism in Religion:
Being overly harsh in religious practice leads to burnout. Aisha (RA) narrated that the Prophet (PBUH) said:
“Do what you are capable of, for Allah does not tire until you do. The most beloved deeds to Allah are those done consistently, even if small.”
5. Staying with the Community:
Avoiding isolation and being part of a community enhances motivation. The Prophet (PBUH) said:
“Togetherness is mercy, division is punishment.”
“Allah’s hand is with the group.”
Imam Ali (AS) said: “It is better to be with others in hardship than to be alone in comfort.”
6. Recognizing Divine Laws:
“You will never find any change in the way of Allah.” (Surah Fatir, 35:43)
Allah tests people through each other’s efforts:
“If Allah had willed, He could have taken revenge on them, but He tests some of you through others.” (Surah Muhammad, 47:4)
7. Anticipating and Preparing for Obstacles:
Being mentally and practically ready to face challenges leaves no room for giving up.
8. Working Strategically:
Prioritize important tasks, avoid distractions, and stay focused on meaningful goals.
9. Keeping the Company of Righteous and Hardworking People:
They inspire motivation and spiritual vitality. The Prophet (PBUH) said:
“Shall I tell you who the best person is among you? The one who reminds you of God when you see them.”
10. Taking Care of Physical Well-being:
Eating healthy, avoiding excess, and getting rest leads to greater energy and alertness.
The Prophet (PBUH) once entered the mosque and saw a rope tied between two columns. When asked, he was told it was used by Zaynab to lean on during prayer when tired. The Prophet said:
“Untie it. Pray as long as you are energetic. When tired, rest.”
