from (to peer about ("skeptic"); perhaps akin to σκάπτω through the idea of concealment; compare σκέπασμα); a watch (sentry or scout), i.e. (by implication) a goal:--mark.
Transliteration:skopós
Pronunciation:skop-os'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun σκοπός (skopós), `{{G4649}}`, derives from a root meaning "to peer about" or "to observe intently." Its semantic range encompasses two closely related concepts. Primarily, it refers to "a watch" or "a sentry," someone who observes from a vantage point, often with a specific purpose such as guarding or surveying. This sense emphasizes diligent and focused attention on a distant object or a particular area. Secondarily, and by implication, σκοπός refers to the "mark," "goal," or "target" itself – the object toward which one's gaze, efforts, or aspirations are directed. In this sense, it is not merely a random point, but a deliberately chosen objective that is pursued with intention and focus. The word thus captures both the act of purposeful observation and the specific aim or destination of that observation and subsequent action.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term σκοπός (skopós) appears only once in the New Testament, in the Apostle Paul's epistle to the Philippians:
> "I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus." [[Philippians 3:14]]
In this pivotal verse, Paul employs σκοπός to describe the ultimate "goal" or "mark" of his spiritual race. The context is deeply rooted in athletic imagery, where Paul likens his Christian life to a runner striving for a prize. He speaks of forgetting what is behind and straining forward to what is ahead ([[Philippians 3:13]]), underscoring a singular, unwavering determination. The "goal" is not an earthly achievement but is explicitly defined as "the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus." This signifies a divine summons and ultimate destiny in Christ, serving as the fixed spiritual target for Paul's entire existence and ministry. The word here conveys not just an objective, but the *ultimate* objective, pursued with intense focus and dedication.
### Related Words & Concepts
Understanding σκοπός (skopós) is enriched by examining its relationship with other Greek terms:
* **σκοπέω (skopeō)** `{{G4648}}`: This verb, from which σκοπός is derived, means "to look at," "to observe carefully," or "to consider." It highlights the active process of diligent attention, as seen in [[Luke 11:35]] where one is urged to "watch out" (σκοπέω) concerning the light within.
* **τέλος (telos)** `{{G5056}}`: Often translated as "end," "goal," or "purpose," τέλος can refer to the culmination or ultimate aim of something. While σκοπός emphasizes the *mark* to be aimed at, τέλος can denote the *completion* or *outcome*. For example, Christ is the "end" (τέλος) of the law for righteousness in [[Romans 10:4]].
* **βραβεῖον (brabeion)** `{{G1017}}`: This noun signifies the "prize" awarded in athletic contests. In [[Philippians 3:14]], it is the βραβεῖον that awaits at the σκοπός, reinforcing the vivid imagery of a race and the valuable reward for achieving the ultimate objective.
* **διώκω (diōkō)** `{{G1377}}`: Meaning "to pursue," "to press on," or "to run after," this verb perfectly complements σκοπός in [[Philippians 3:12-14]]. Paul states he "presses on" (διώκω) toward the σκοπός, emphasizing the vigorous, active, and persistent effort required to reach the goal.
These related terms collectively portray a picture of purposeful and disciplined striving toward a divinely appointed objective, characterized by focused attention and relentless pursuit.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of σκοπός (skopós) in [[Philippians 3:14]] is profound, articulating core aspects of Christian discipleship:
1. **Teleological Orientation of Life:** It underscores that the Christian life is not aimless or haphazard but possesses a clear, divine purpose and ultimate destination. Believers are called to fix their spiritual gaze upon a transcendent σκοπός – the "upward call of God in Christ Jesus" – rather than being distracted by worldly aims or temporary successes.
2. **Active Pursuit and Perseverance:** The imagery of "pressing on" toward the σκοπός demands active engagement, discipline, and unwavering perseverance. It implies a continuous, forward momentum, acknowledging that the spiritual journey involves effort, sacrifice, and resilience, all directed toward a glorious end. This rejects spiritual lethargy and complacency.
3. **Christocentric Focus:** The ultimate σκοπός is not merely an abstract concept or a state of being, but a dynamic relationship with God "in Christ Jesus." This means that the goal is inextricably linked to Christ's person and work, and the pursuit is empowered by His grace. Our supreme aim is to know Him and be found in Him ([[Philippians 3:8-9]]).
4. **Eschatological Hope:** The "upward call" points to the heavenly dimension of the Christian hope. The σκοπός is not earthly recognition or temporal reward, but the ultimate prize of eternal life, resurrection, and perfect fellowship with God. This future glory provides profound motivation for present faithfulness and endurance, transforming suffering into a pathway to ultimate joy.
Thus, σκοπός serves as a powerful theological anchor, reminding believers of their ultimate destiny and the focused commitment required to pursue it with all diligence.
### Summary
The Greek word σκοπός (skopós), `{{G4649}}`, denotes both a "watcher" and, by extension, the "mark" or "goal" that is intently observed and pursued. Its singular, yet highly significant, New Testament occurrence in [[Philippians 3:14]] reveals the Apostle Paul's unwavering focus on the "upward call of God in Christ Jesus" as his ultimate σκοπός. This term vividly portrays the Christian life as a purposeful race, demanding focused attention and diligent pursuit of a divinely appointed objective. Related terms such as σκοπέω (`{{G4648}}`), τέλος (`{{G5056}}`), βραβεῖον (`{{G1017}}`), and διώκω (`{{G1377}}`) further illuminate the concept of intentional striving toward a glorious end. Theologically, σκοπός underscores the purposeful, Christ-centered, and eschatologically oriented nature of believers' lives, urging them to fix their gaze on their heavenly hope and the supreme prize found in Christ.
TRV