probably from the same as ἀγκάλη; a mass (as bending or bulging by its load), i.e. burden (hindrance):--weight.
Transliteration:ónkos
Pronunciation:ong'-kos
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word ὄγκος (ónkos), Strong's `{{G3591}}`, fundamentally denotes a "mass," "bulk," or "swelling." Its etymological root, likely connected to ἀγκάλη (ankalē), suggests something that bends or bulges due to its load. This literal sense extends metaphorically to anything that is cumbersome, heavy, or causes an impediment. Thus, its semantic range includes "burden," "encumbrance," "hindrance," or "weight." It describes something that, by its very presence or mass, obstructs free movement or progress, causing one to be weighed down or slowed. It is not necessarily inherently evil or sinful, but rather an unnecessary addition that impedes.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word ὄγκος (ónkos) appears only once in the New Testament, found in the exhortation of [[Hebrews 12:1]]: "Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight (ὄγκος), and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us."
In this singular, yet highly significant, occurrence, ὄγκος is presented within the powerful metaphor of the Christian life as an athletic race. The "weight" here refers to any encumbrance that would hinder a runner's performance. This could include excessive clothing, unnecessary possessions, or anything that adds bulk and slows down the athlete. It is distinct from "sin" (ἁμαρτία - hamartia), which is mentioned immediately after it. While sin is a moral transgression that actively entangles and hinders, ὄγκος represents anything that, though not necessarily sinful in itself, nevertheless weighs down the believer and impedes spiritual progress. Examples might include worldly anxieties, excessive material possessions, unnecessary distractions, or even legitimate pursuits that become disproportionate in their demand on one's time and energy, thereby hindering focus on the "race." The imperative "let us lay aside" (ἀποθέμενοι - apothemenoi) emphasizes the need for intentional divestment and spiritual discipline to run the race with the necessary freedom and endurance.
### Related Words & Concepts
To fully appreciate ὄγκος, it is helpful to consider related Greek terms that convey aspects of burden or impediment:
* `{{G926}}` (βάρος - baros): This word often denotes a literal "weight" or "heavy load," but also a "burden" of responsibility or affliction (e.g., [[Galatians 6:2]], [[2 Corinthians 4:17]]). While similar to ὄγκος in referring to something heavy, βάρος often carries the connotation of a legitimate or necessary burden, whereas ὄγκος implies an unnecessary encumbrance.
* `{{G5476}}` (φορτίον - phortion): This term signifies a "load" or "burden," often one that is carried, and can refer to a personal responsibility or duty (e.g., [[Matthew 11:30]], [[Galatians 6:5]]). Like βάρος, it can be a legitimate load, unlike the hindering nature of ὄγκος.
* `{{G4349}}` (πρόσκομμα - proskomma) and `{{G4625}}` (σκάνδαλον - skandalon): These terms refer to a "stumbling block" or "offense," which are active hindrances that cause one to fall. While ὄγκος is a passive encumbrance, these words describe more direct obstacles to faith or moral conduct.
* The concept of "lightness" or "freedom" stands in contrast to ὄγκος, emphasizing the unburdened state necessary for spiritual agility and swiftness in the Christian walk.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of ὄγκος in [[Hebrews 12:1]] is profound for understanding the nature of the Christian life. It underscores the reality that spiritual progress is not merely about avoiding overt sin, but also about shedding anything that, even if morally neutral, impedes one's walk with God. The Christian life is depicted as a demanding "race" requiring discipline, focus, and unencumbered movement.
The "weight" (ὄγκος) represents those things that distract, slow down, or exhaust the believer, preventing them from running with endurance. These are often the "good" things that become ultimate things, or the "legitimate" things that become excessive. For instance, worldly pursuits, material possessions, social anxieties, or even good works performed out of self-reliance rather than divine empowerment, can become spiritual weights.
The call to "lay aside" these weights is an invitation to spiritual discernment and intentional renunciation. It is a recognition that true freedom in Christ involves divesting oneself of anything that hinders intimacy with God and effective service. This act of shedding burdens allows the believer to fix their eyes more fully on Jesus, the "founder and perfecter of our faith," and to run the race with the necessary agility and perseverance, ultimately glorifying God.
### Summary
The Greek word ὄγκος (ónkos), Strong's `{{G3591}}`, conveys the meaning of a "mass" or "burden" that hinders movement or progress. Though it appears only once in the New Testament, its singular occurrence in [[Hebrews 12:1]] is exceptionally impactful. Here, it signifies any unnecessary "weight" or encumbrance that impedes a believer in the "race" of faith. Distinct from active sin, ὄγκος represents things that, while not inherently sinful, nevertheless weigh down the spirit, distract from the divine calling, and hinder spiritual endurance. The biblical injunction to "lay aside every weight" is a powerful call to spiritual discipline, discernment, and intentional divestment, enabling believers to run the Christian race with unhindered focus on Christ and perseverance towards the heavenly prize.
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