### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun *áthlēsis* (ἄθλησις, `{{G119}}`) is derived from the verb *athléo* (ἀθλέω, `{{G118}}`), which means "to contend in public games," "to strive," or "to struggle." Consequently, *áthlēsis* carries the primary meaning of a "contest," "struggle," or "exertion." As indicated by its base definition, its usage in the New Testament is figurative, referring not to literal athletic competition but to a metaphorical "struggle" or "fight." It signifies a strenuous effort, a trial, or an ordeal, often implying a difficult and challenging experience that demands perseverance and endurance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term *áthlēsis* (`{{G119}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in the Epistle to the Hebrews:
* [[Hebrews 10:32]]: "But recall the former days when, after you were enlightened, you endured a great struggle of sufferings."
In this solitary occurrence, the author reminds the readers of their past experiences, specifically a "great struggle of sufferings" (ἄθλησιν πολλήν παθημάτων) that they endured shortly after their conversion. The context of [[Hebrews 10]] describes the severe persecutions and afflictions faced by these early believers, which included public reproach and tribulation (verse 33), sympathy for those imprisoned (verse 34), and the plundering of their property (verse 34). The use of *áthlēsis* here emphasizes the intensity, duration, and arduous nature of these experiences. It portrays their endurance not as passive resignation but as an active, demanding contest against external opposition for the sake of their faith. The word highlights the steadfastness and perseverance required to navigate such trials.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **Verb form:** The verb *athléo* (ἀθλέω, `{{G118}}`), from which *áthlēsis* is derived, is used in [[2 Timothy 2:5]] to describe an athlete competing according to the rules, reinforcing the imagery of a disciplined and rule-bound contest.
* **Semantic Overlap:** *Áthlēsis* shares significant semantic territory with other Greek words related to struggle and conflict:
* *Agōn* (ἀγών, `{{G73}}`): This noun means "contest," "struggle," or "fight." It is frequently used in the New Testament to describe the spiritual battle, as seen in [[Philippians 1:30]] ("same conflict") and [[1 Timothy 6:12]] ("fight the good fight").
* *Agōnizomai* (ἀγωνίζομαι, `{{G75}}`): The verb form of *agōn*, meaning "to strive," "to contend," or "to struggle." Paul uses it to describe his intense effort in ministry ([[Colossians 1:29]]) and the believer's struggle for the faith ([[1 Timothy 6:12]]).
* **Related Concepts:** The concept of *áthlēsis* is intrinsically linked to themes such as persecution, suffering for Christ, endurance, steadfastness, spiritual warfare, and perseverance. It encapsulates the demanding nature of Christian discipleship in a world often hostile to the gospel.
### Theological Significance
The singular yet potent use of *áthlēsis* in [[Hebrews 10:32]] carries profound theological weight. It frames the early Christian experience of persecution not merely as passive suffering but as an active "struggle" or "contest" in which believers are engaged participants. This perspective elevates suffering, imbuing it with purpose and agency, suggesting that endurance in the face of adversity is a form of spiritual engagement—a "fight" for faith and truth. This aligns with the broader New Testament teaching that the Christian life is a spiritual battle, not against human adversaries but against spiritual forces and worldly opposition ([[Ephesians 6:12]]). The "great struggle of sufferings" in Hebrews serves as a powerful reminder that faithfulness often involves hardship, and that such trials are not arbitrary but are integral to the believer's journey toward spiritual maturity and ultimate reward. It underscores the cost of discipleship and the absolute necessity of perseverance in the life of faith.
### Summary
*Áthlēsis* (ἄθλησις, `{{G119}}`) denotes a strenuous "struggle" or "contest," metaphorically applied to the challenging experiences of believers. Its sole New Testament occurrence in [[Hebrews 10:32]] describes the "great struggle of sufferings" endured by early Christians, highlighting the intense persecution they faced for their faith. Derived from *athléo* (`{{G118}}`), which refers to athletic competition, *áthlēsis* portrays Christian suffering not as passive endurance but as an active spiritual engagement, a "fight" for truth and righteousness. This concept is closely related to *agōn* (`{{G73}}`) and *agonizomai* (`{{G75}}`), emphasizing the theme of spiritual warfare and the necessity of steadfast perseverance in the face of adversity. The word underscores the demanding nature of discipleship and the purposeful character of trials in the life of faith.
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