The Greek word ónkos, represented by G3591, describes a weight or burden. It appears only 1 time in the entire Bible, signifying a highly specific and potent metaphorical meaning. The term's base definition is a mass that bends or bulges by its load, conveying the idea of a hindrance or burden.
The single use of G3591 is found in a powerful exhortation to believers. In Hebrews 12:1, believers are instructed to "lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us," so they can run the spiritual race with patience. Here, the weight is presented as a figurative encumbrance that, like sin, slows a person down and must be intentionally cast off to make spiritual progress. This action is encouraged in light of the "so great a cloud of witnesses" that has gone before.
Several related words in its context clarify the meaning of G3591:
- G659 apotíthēmi (to put away): This is the action believers are commanded to take against the weight. It means to cast off or lay aside, and is used elsewhere to command putting off the old man Ephesians 4:22 and laying aside all malice 1 Peter 2:1.
- G2139 euperístatos (which doth so easily beset): This term, describing a competitor that thwarts a racer from every direction, is used in parallel with weight to characterize the nature of sin as a hindrance Hebrews 12:1.
- G73 agṓn (race): This word establishes the setting as a contest, fight, or race. The weight is a direct impediment to completing this spiritual race Hebrews 12:1, which is elsewhere called the "good fight of faith" 1 Timothy 6:12.
The theological significance of G3591 is focused and direct:
- Spiritual Hindrance: The term is used exclusively as a metaphor for any burden that impedes a believer's spiritual journey. It represents something that must be shed in order to effectively run the race that is set before us Hebrews 12:1.
- Association with Sin: Its placement next to "the sin which doth so easily beset us" Hebrews 12:1 highlights its role as a critical obstacle to a holy life, even if the weight itself is not explicitly defined as sin.
- A Call to Action: The instruction to "lay aside" every weight is a command for decisive, personal action. It underscores the believer's responsibility to identify and remove any encumbrance that prevents them from running with patience G5281.
In summary, while ónkos G3591 is one of the rarest words in the New Testament, its singular appearance provides a clear and powerful image. It is not just a physical load but a spiritual weight—any burden or hindrance that prevents a believer from running their spiritual race freely. The term serves as a potent reminder for believers to cast off all that entangles them, so they may pursue their divine calling with endurance and focus.
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