Meaning
What does No rest for the wicked mean?
No rest for the wicked is a popular idiomatic phrase, originating from the Bible, which states, that those who are wicked, like The Wicked Witch of the East Bro may not repose ever.
Origin
What's the origin of No rest for the wicked?
“No rest for the wicked” originates from the Book of Isaiah and was first translated to English by Miles Coverdale in 1535.
The biblical line has been used in countless situations across Christianity, appearing in sermons and speeches in older contexts, including a sermon of John Calvin in 1574.
By the 19th century, however, the meaning of the expression took a humorous turn, as people started alluding to their lazily performed work, whenever they said, “No rest for the wicked”.
Spread & Usage
How did No rest for the wicked spread?
“No rest for the wicked” became a popular phrase, referring to work, with the same enthusiasm as Demotivational Posters.
It appeared as the title of countless works of music, including the 1988 album of Ozzy Osborne, as well as the 2010 Cage the Elephant song Ain’t No Rest for The Wicked.
External resources
- Phrases.org.uk – No rest for the wicked
- Dictionary.com – No rest for the wicked