The meaning of “ἀγωνίζομαι”
Understanding agōnízomai reveals the original theological depth often simplified in translation.
fight, labor fervently, strive. - to struggle, literally (to compete for a prize), figuratively (to contend with an adve...
ἀγωνίζομαι
fight, labor fervently, strive. - to struggle, literally (to compete for a prize), figuratively (to contend with an adversary), or genitive case (to endeavor to accomplish something)
Occurrences in the Bible
| Reference | Text | |
|---|---|---|
| Luke 13:24 | “Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.” Word: ἀγωνίζομαι (agōnízomai) | |
| John 18:36 | “Jesus answered, My kingdom is not of this world: if my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight, that I should not be delivered to the Jews: but now is my kingdom not from hence.” Word: ἀγωνίζομαι (agōnízomai) | |
| 1 Corinthians 9:25 | “And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible.” Word: ἀγωνίζομαι (agōnízomai) | |
| Colossians 4:12 | “Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ, saluteth you, always labouring fervently for you in prayers, that ye may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God.” Word: ἀγωνίζομαι (agōnízomai) | |
| 1 Timothy 6:12 | “Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.” Word: ἀγωνίζομαι (agōnízomai) |