from ἀγών; to struggle, literally (to compete for a prize), figuratively (to contend with an adversary), or genitive case (to endeavor to accomplish something):--fight, labor fervently, strive.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **agōnízomai**, represented by `{{G75}}`, is derived from ἀγών `{{G73}}` and means to struggle. It is used literally to describe competing for a prize, figuratively for contending with an adversary, and generally to convey an endeavor to accomplish something. Its uses in scripture are translated as fight, labor fervently, and strive. It appears **7 times** across **7 unique verses** in the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G75}}` consistently portrays a sense of intense and focused effort. Paul uses it to describe the Christian life as a contest, urging Timothy to "**fight** the good fight of faith" [[1 Timothy 6:12]] and later reflecting on his own life, "I have **fought** a good fight" [[2 Timothy 4:7]]. Jesus uses the term to command his followers to "**strive** to enter in at the strait gate" [[Luke 13:24]], emphasizing that the path requires great exertion. The word also carries the imagery of athletic competition, where one "**striveth for the mastery**" for an incorruptible crown [[1 Corinthians 9:25]]. This struggle can also be spiritual, as when Epaphras is described as "**labouring fervently**" for the Colossians in prayer [[Colossians 4:12]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the nature and context of this struggle:
* `{{G73}}` **agṓn** (conflict, contention, fight, race): As the root of `{{G75}}`, this word defines the contest itself. It is used in direct connection with `{{G75}}` in phrases like "fight the good fight" [[2 Timothy 4:7]], setting the stage for the action of striving.
* `{{G2872}}` **kopiáō** (to work hard): This term, meaning to toil or labor, is paired with `{{G75}}` to describe the exhaustive nature of apostolic ministry. Paul states he does "labour, striving according to his working" [[Colossians 1:29]].
* `{{G1949}}` **epilambánomai** (to seize, lay hold on): This word often describes the goal of the struggle initiated by `{{G75}}`. After the command to "fight," believers are told to "**lay hold on** eternal life" [[1 Timothy 6:12]].
* `{{G2212}}` **zētéō** (to seek, endeavour): In [[Luke 13:24]], this word is used to contrast a lesser effort with the intensity of `{{G75}}`. Jesus warns that many will "**seek** to enter in" but will not be able, highlighting that true entry requires a more forceful striving.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G75}}` is significant, framing the Christian experience as an active and demanding pursuit.
* **The Christian Life as a Contest:** The believer is portrayed as a competitor who must "**fight**" for the faith [[1 Timothy 6:12]] and "**strive**" for an incorruptible prize [[1 Corinthians 9:25]], demanding discipline and perseverance.
* **Intense Spiritual Exertion:** The term is used to describe the earnest effort required for salvation ("**Strive** to enter in," [[Luke 13:24]]) and for intercessory prayer, where Epaphras is "**labouring fervently**" for others [[Colossians 4:12]].
* **Divinely Empowered Struggle:** The effort is not accomplished by human strength alone. Paul clarifies that his striving is "according to his working, which **worketh** in me **mightily**" [[Colossians 1:29]], linking the believer's struggle to the power of God.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G75}}` conveys far more than a simple conflict. It is a word of intense, purposeful action that characterizes the Christian walk. From the athletic metaphor of striving for a crown [[1 Corinthians 9:25]] to the spiritual battle for faith [[1 Timothy 6:12]] and fervent labor in prayer [[Colossians 4:12]], **agōnízomai** underscores that the relationship with God involves dedicated and vigorous participation, a struggle that is ultimately sustained by His divine power.
TRV