### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb G464 (ἀνταγωνίζομαι, antagōnízomai) is a compound word formed from ἀντί (anti), meaning "against" or "opposite," and ἀγωνίζομαι (agōnízomai, `{{G75}}`), meaning "to contend for a prize, struggle, or fight." The base word ἀγωνίζομαι itself derives from ἀγών (agōn, `{{G73}}`), referring to a contest, struggle, or conflict, often in an athletic sense (e.g., a wrestling match or race).
Therefore, G464 carries the core meaning of engaging in a strenuous, active, and often difficult struggle *against* an opponent or opposing force. It implies a direct, forceful confrontation, not merely passive resistance, but an energetic and persistent effort to overcome or withstand. The English word "antagonize" derives from this root, though G464 in the biblical context emphasizes the *struggle* rather than merely provoking hostility.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word G464 (ἀνταγωνίζομαι) appears only once in the New Testament, in the Epistle to the Hebrews:
* **[[Hebrews 12:4]]**: "You have not yet resisted to the point of shedding blood in your struggle against sin."
In this sole occurrence, the author of Hebrews addresses believers who are undergoing trials and persecution. The immediate context of [[Hebrews 12:1-3]] encourages readers to "run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith." This sets up the Christian life as an athletic contest, a theme common in Pauline epistles as well.
The phrase "your struggle against sin" (πρὸς τὴν ἁμαρτίαν ἀνταγωνίζομαι) is highly significant. "Sin" here is not merely a collection of individual transgressions but is presented as a powerful, active adversary or principle against which the believers must contend. The intensity of this struggle is highlighted by the comparison: "You have not yet resisted to the point of shedding blood." This serves as a rhetorical device to both acknowledge their suffering and challenge them to greater perseverance, reminding them that Christ Himself endured the ultimate suffering (shedding His blood) for their sake. The verse implies that the struggle against sin is a life-or-death battle, demanding ultimate commitment and endurance, even to the point of martyrdom.
### Related Words & Concepts
Understanding G464 is enhanced by examining its etymological roots and related terms:
* **ἀγωνίζομαι (agōnízomai, `{{G75}}`)**: The base verb, meaning "to contend, fight, labor fervently." Used for athletic contests ([[1 Corinthians 9:25]]), spiritual striving ([[Colossians 1:29]]), and fighting the good fight of faith ([[1 Timothy 6:12]], [[2 Timothy 4:7]]). G464 adds the specific nuance of struggling *against* an opponent.
* **ἀγών (agōn, `{{G73}}`)**: The noun form, referring to a contest, struggle, or conflict. Used in contexts like the "great struggle" of prayer ([[Colossians 2:1]]) or the "good fight" ([[1 Timothy 6:12]]).
* **ἀνθίστημι (anthistēmi, `{{G436}}`)**: To stand against, resist. This term is more general, referring to taking a stand or opposing something. While related in meaning, G464 implies a more active, strenuous, and prolonged engagement in the resistance.
* **πάλη (palē, `{{G3823}}`)**: Wrestling. Used in [[Ephesians 6:12]] to describe the spiritual battle against "principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places." This term also conveys a close, intense struggle.
The concept of spiritual warfare, perseverance, endurance (`{{G5281}}`, hypomonē), and discipline (`{{G3809}}`, paideia) are all closely related to the meaning and context of G464.
### Theological Significance
The singular use of G464 in [[Hebrews 12:4]] carries profound theological weight, shaping the understanding of the Christian life:
1. **The Nature of the Christian Life as a Struggle:** This verse unequivocally portrays the Christian walk not as a passive journey but as an active, strenuous, and often painful struggle. It is a contest against a formidable adversary: sin. This challenges any notion of an easy or complacent faith.
2. **Sin as an Active Adversary:** The language "struggle against sin" elevates sin beyond mere individual acts or weaknesses. It is presented as an opposing force, a power that must be actively contended with. This aligns with broader biblical themes of spiritual warfare, where believers are called to resist the devil and his schemes.
3. **The Call to Perseverance and Endurance:** The author reminds his readers that their struggle, though difficult, has not yet reached the ultimate cost—shedding blood. This serves as both an affirmation of their current endurance and a powerful exhortation to continue, even if it means facing martyrdom. It connects their present suffering to the greater suffering of Christ ([[Hebrews 12:2-3]]) and the faithful witnesses of [[Hebrews 11]].
4. **The Cost of Discipleship:** The implicit comparison to "shedding blood" underscores the radical demands of following Christ. True discipleship may require ultimate sacrifice and unwavering commitment in the face of intense opposition. It challenges believers to consider the full implications of their faith and to count the cost.
### Summary
The Greek word G464 (ἀνταγωνίζομαι, antagōnízomai) signifies an intense, strenuous, and active struggle *against* an opposing force. Its singular occurrence in [[Hebrews 12:4]] is profoundly significant, portraying the Christian life as a demanding contest against sin, which is presented as a powerful adversary. This unique usage emphasizes the need for believers to persevere with utmost effort, even to the point of ultimate sacrifice, echoing the suffering of Christ. The word underscores the serious and costly nature of discipleship, calling for active resistance and unwavering commitment in the face of spiritual opposition.
TRV