Introduction
Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies is essential for capturing the depth and nuance of the original texts. The Greek word ἐπαγωνίζομαι (epagōnízomai) is particularly significant because it encapsulates the idea of struggling, striving, or contending earnestly for a cause or belief. This term is crucial in interpreting New Testament passages that speak of spiritual warfare, perseverance, and commitment. It also provides insight into the ancient Greek cultural perspective on contests and efforts in both literal and metaphorical contexts.
Key Information
- The Greek Word: ἐπαγωνίζομαι, transliterated as epagōnízomai [eh-pah-go-NEE-zoh-my].
- Etymology: Derived from the preposition ἐπί (epi), meaning “upon” or “over,” and the verb ἀγωνίζομαι (agōnízomai), meaning “to struggle” or “to fight.”
- Part of Speech: Verb; often found in the middle or passive voice, indicating a reflective or reciprocal action.
- The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.
Primary Meanings
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- To Strive Earnestly: Engaging in a serious or intense struggle, often for a cause or in a figurative battle.
- To Contend: Fighting or arguing against opposition or an adversary.
- To Wrestle or Battle: Used metaphorically to describe spiritual or moral combat.
Similar Words: ἀγωνίζομαι (agōnízomai) [ah-go-NEE-zoh-my]: Both verbs share the root agōn, meaning “contest” or “struggle.” While epagōnízomai implies striving or contending “over” something with a strong intensity, agōnízomai can be used more broadly for any struggle or contest.
Further Insights: The verb epagōnízomai is used in the middle or passive voice, which indicates that the subject is participating in the action with a sense of involvement or reciprocity. This form is common in Greek verbs where the subject engages in an action that affects itself. For more on Greek grammar, Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.
Lexicon Insights
BDAG: Epagōnízomai is defined as “to contend earnestly,” especially in spiritual or moral contexts. It is often used to describe efforts in defense of faith or truth, suggesting a continuous and strenuous struggle.
Thayer’s: The lexicon notes that epagōnízomai means “to fight for” or “to struggle against,” particularly in defense of one’s beliefs or position. The term carries a connotation of exerting significant effort and energy in the battle.
Vines: Highlights that epagōnízomai relates to intense effort, usually in the context of spiritual or philosophical debates. It underscores the importance of perseverance and commitment in contending for one’s faith.
LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones): Primarily used in classical texts to mean “to fight” or “to strive over,” with applications in both literal combat and rhetorical or philosophical disputes.
Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Describes epagōnízomai as to “contend with adversaries,” especially in a figurative sense of spiritual warfare or defending a cause.
Related Scripture References
- Jude 1:3: “Beloved, although I was very eager to write to you about our common salvation, I found it necessary to write appealing to you to contend [ἐπαγωνίζεσθαι] earnestly for the faith that was once for all delivered to the saints.”
Classical Usage
| Author | Name of Work | English Text |
|---|---|---|
| Plato | Laws | “To strive (ἐπαγωνίζεσθαι) in matters of justice and honor.” |
| Xenophon | Cyropaedia | “The warriors must strive (ἐπαγωνίζεσθαι) over their enemies for the sake of their city.” |
| Sophocles | Ajax | “In contests, one must contend (ἐπαγωνίζεσθαι) not just for victory, but for dignity.” |
| Septuagint (LXX) | 2 Maccabees | “The righteous strive (ἐπαγωνίζεσθαι) in faith to uphold the Law of the Lord.” |
| Septuagint (LXX) | Psalms | “To contend (ἐπαγωνίζεσθαι) with evildoers is the duty of the faithful.” |
| Septuagint (LXX) | Proverbs | “Strive (ἐπαγωνίζεσθαι) for wisdom as if it were your life’s greatest battle.” |
Summary of ἐπαγωνίζομαι (G1864: epagōnízomai)
The Greek verb epagōnízomai emphasizes earnest struggle and contention, particularly in contexts of defending the faith or upholding righteous principles. It appears in the New Testament to encourage believers to actively fight for their beliefs and maintain their spiritual integrity. Classical Greek usage also shows its relevance in moral, philosophical, and literal combat, highlighting its broader application in ancient literature and thought.
Did You Know?
- Did You Know? The root of epagōnízomai, agōn (ἀγών), is the same word from which the English word “agony” is derived. This highlights the intensity and emotional struggle often associated with this Greek verb, conveying not just a physical contest but a deep emotional or spiritual struggle.
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