### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **áthlēsis**, represented by `{{G119}}`, is defined as a struggle, used figuratively to mean a **fight**. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Its singular use provides a focused and powerful image of spiritual conflict.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G119}}` is in [[Hebrews 10:32]], which encourages believers to "call to remembrance the former days." In that verse, the author describes a time after they were "illuminated" `{{G5461}}` when they "endured a great **fight** of afflictions" `{{G3804}}`. The context frames this **fight** not as a physical combat but as a profound struggle endured with perseverance in the face of suffering.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several words from its biblical context help define the nature of this **fight**:
* `{{G5278}}` **hypoménō** (to undergo, i.e. bear (trials), have fortitude, persevere): This word, translated "endured," shows that the **fight** of `{{G119}}` is a trial of steadfastness. This same endurance is called for in tribulation [[Romans 12:12]] and is what Jesus demonstrated at the cross [[Hebrews 12:2]].
* `{{G3804}}` **páthēma** (something undergone, i.e. hardship or pain; subjectively, an emotion or influence): Translated as "afflictions," this word specifies that the struggle is one of suffering. Believers are called to a fellowship of Christ's sufferings [[Philippians 3:10]], which are not worthy to be compared with future glory [[Romans 8:18]].
* `{{G5461}}` **phōtízō** (to shed rays, i.e. to shine or (transitively) to brighten up (literally or figuratively)): Translated "illuminated," this word sets the context for the **fight**. It occurs after believers have been enlightened, a concept also used to describe bringing life and immortality to light through the gospel [[2 Timothy 1:10]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G119}}` is found entirely within its specific context in [[Hebrews 10:32]].
* **A Post-Illumination Struggle:** The verse positions the "great **fight** of afflictions" as an event that takes place *after* believers are "illuminated" `{{G5461}}`. This establishes a theological principle that spiritual enlightenment often precedes a period of intense trial and testing.
* **The Nature of Christian Conflict:** `{{G119}}` is defined not by aggression but by endurance. It is a "fight" that one "endured" `{{G5278}}`. The conflict is characterized by "afflictions" `{{G3804}}`, linking the believer's struggle to hardship and pain.
* **Remembrance as Encouragement:** The passage begins with an instruction to "call to remembrance" `{{G363}}` this past **fight**. This act of remembering past faithfulness through suffering serves as a crucial motivation to persevere in the present faith.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G119}}` **áthlēsis** provides a potent, albeit rare, depiction of the Christian life as a **fight**. Though used only once, its placement in [[Hebrews 10:32]] is highly instructive. It portrays this spiritual struggle as a great contest of endurance through afflictions, one that characteristically follows the moment a believer is illuminated by the truth. It serves as a reminder that perseverance in the face of hardship is a defining element of the faith.
TRV