[Greek] συλάω (sylaō), [Latin] expoliare: to plunder, to rob, to make spoil of, to strip with impunity; 2 Cor. 11:8
Temple of Theseus: a refuge for slaves
Background information:
Ancient Greece: Some temples, altars, groves, and statues of the gods were places of refuge to slaves, criminals, and debtors. In Athens, the temple of Theseus was chiefly intended for the protection of ill-treated slaves, who could take refuge in this place. These slaves then compelled their masters to sell them to someone else.
Temple of Asylaeus: a refuge for vagabonds and fugitives
Ancient Rome: The temple of Asylaeus was built on the hills in Rome. This hill was called Asylum Hill. This temple was a place of refuge and sanctuary for those who have violated the laws of the city. The god Asylaeus was the patron of vagabonds and fugitives.
Old Testament: Adonijah, in fear of this life from King Solomon, had seized the horns of the altar. Adonijah pleaded and paid homage to King Solomon. The king spared his life. The horns on each of the four corners have been said to have a special degree of holiness. The Lord said to Joshua to designate cities of refuge which the Lord had previously spoken through Moses. These were cities where one, guilty of accidental and unintentional homicide, may flee for asylum. This person shall plead his case before elders. Once he has stood judgment before the community, he shall live in that city until the death of the high priest in office.
New Testament: Paul relates that he had “plundered’ other cities in order to carry out his apostolic mission. Paul received support (rations) and provisions. Technically, Paul did not repay or reciprocate for these provisions. These cities freely and generously supported Paul. Later in Christianity, many ancient people recognized a religious right of asylum. The early Christian church adopted this principle. In England, King Aethelberth made the first laws regulating sanctuary in 600 A.D. The practice of churches offering sanctuary is still observed in the modern era. This is respected for the sake of tradition.
Scripture:
“I plundered other churches by accepting from them in order to minister to you.” 2 Cor 11:8
Paul figuratively speaks of accepting financial support from some churches in order to help others.
Conclusion:
Asylum, spoils
From this comes the word asylum. An asylum is place where one is free from recrimination. So it is probably not surprising that a church would be a source of refuge. The sanctuary serves the same purpose whether it is a temple, altar or church for those who plunder or commit other crimes. An asylum can also refer to a medical facility.