### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **athléō**, represented by `{{G118}}`, means to **strive**. It appears **2 times** across **1 unique verse** in the Bible. The term is derived from the concept of a contest in the public lists, invoking the image of an athlete contending in competitive games.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single verse where `{{G118}}` is found, [[2 Timothy 2:5]], uses the word twice to establish a powerful metaphor. The verse states that if a man is to **strive** for masteries, he will not be crowned unless he **strive** lawfully [[2 Timothy 2:5]]. This directly connects the Christian effort with the disciplined contest of an athlete, where victory is contingent on following the rules.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the same verse clarify the meaning of this athletic metaphor:
* `{{G4737}}` **stephanóō** (crown): Defined as "to adorn with an honorary wreath." This is the prize for which one contends, and it cannot be received without lawfully striving [[2 Timothy 2:5]].
* `{{G3545}}` **nomímōs** (lawfully): This adverb means "legitimately (specially, agreeably to the rules of the lists)." It modifies **athléō**, specifying that the contest must be carried out according to the established rules to be valid [[2 Timothy 2:5]].
* `{{G3362}}` **eàn mḗ** (except): This phrase, meaning "if not, i.e. unless," creates the critical condition. The crown is withheld **except** when the striving is lawful, linking the action directly to its required manner [[2 Timothy 2:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G118}}` is centered on the conditions for spiritual reward.
* **An Athletic Metaphor for Christian Life:** The word `{{G118}}` frames the spiritual journey as a disciplined, athletic contest. It requires endurance and adherence to a standard outside of oneself to achieve the prize [[2 Timothy 2:5]].
* **The Importance of Rules:** The term's direct connection to **nomímōs** (lawfully) highlights that the "rules of the lists" are paramount. This points to the necessity of adhering to divine standards, rather than self-defined efforts, to be **crowned**.
* **Conditional Reward:** The use of `{{G118}}` establishes that the reward is conditional. It is not enough to simply participate or **strive**; the effort must be conducted lawfully to be recognized with a crown [[2 Timothy 2:5]].
### Summary
In summary, while `{{G118}}` **athléō** is rare in scripture, its single appearance provides a potent illustration of the Christian life. It moves beyond a general idea of effort to a specific picture of an athlete contending for a prize. The term's power lies in its direct linkage to the necessity of striving **lawfully** [[2 Timothy 2:5]], teaching that the manner of one's spiritual contest is inseparable from the hope of receiving the final crown.
TRV