No rest for the wicked
Meaning
This phrase is often used humorously by someone who is busy, implying that they cannot rest because their nature (or the task at hand) demands constant activity, often in a self-deprecating or ironic way.
Origin
The enduring sentiment that those who stray from righteousness can never find true peace or respite finds its roots deep within ancient religious texts. Most prominently, the Book of Isaiah in the Old Testament unequivocally declares, "There is no peace, saith the Lord, unto the wicked" (Isaiah 48:22 and 57:21). This stern warning painted a vivid picture of a constant, gnawing disquiet for those who lived outside divine favor. Over centuries, as biblical proverbs seeped into common parlance, the direct pronouncement of "no peace" subtly shifted to "no rest." This adaptation captured the same relentless spiritual and worldly burden, solidifying its place in the English lexicon as both a solemn caution and, ironically, a self-deprecating quip for anyone tirelessly toiling away.
Examples
- The project deadline is tomorrow, so it's no rest for the wicked around here tonight.
- After finishing one chore, my husband immediately started another, muttering, "Well, no rest for the wicked, I suppose."