‎[Greek] ἄθλησις (athlēsis), [Latin] passio

‎[Greek] ἄθλησις (athlēsis), [Latin] passio: contest, conflict, struggle, fight, competition, combat, trial, affliction; Heb.10:32

St. Bruno, born in 1030 A.D, was the founder of the Carthusian Order. He was a close advisor of his former pupil Pope Urban II (who led the Church from 1088-1099).

Background Information:

Greek Hellenism: This term means combat, contest, struggle, trial, practice, and training.

Polybius’ Histories 5.64.6: “By private and public exhortations, these officers inspired their men with a zeal and enthusiasm for the struggle which awaited them.”

Olympic Events:

1. The first ancient Olympic Games can be traced back to 776 BC. These games were dedicated to the Olympian gods on the ancient plains of Olympia.
2. They continued for nearly twelve centuries until Emperor Theodosius decreed in 393 A.D. that such pagan cults be banned.
3. All male Greek citizens, regardless of their social status, were entitled to participate in these games. Married women were not allowed to participate or to watch these games.
4. Single women were able to attend the competition.
5. Running, long jump, shot put, javelin, mixed martial boxing and wrestling, boxing, foot race (with armor and shield), and equestrian events.

Old Testament era: 4 Macc. (written between 1st century B.C and and 1st century A.D.)

1. This book is not included in the Septuagint. 4 Macc.17:14 refers to a competition against a tyrant, with the world and the human race as the spectators.
2. This book was a blending of both Jewish faith and Hellenistic philosophical ideas. The author was writing to the Hellenized Jews.
3. This book was written during the time of the Jewish persecution. The Emperor Claudius issued an edict in 49 A.D. ordering the Jews to leave Rome.
4. This book refers to martyrs who endured in their fidelity to God. They received their ultimate victory of salvation in remaining faithful in their reverence to God.
5. This theme continues years later in the persecution of the Jewish Christians in Jerusalem.

New Testament: Following the resurrection of Jesus, the Jewish Christians experienced persecution from the Jews in Jerusalem. Steven and James, the brother of John the disciple, were martyred at the hands of the Jewish leaders. The book of Hebrews, written around 64 A.D., was written to the Jewish Christians.

Athlesis:

1. The meaning of this term changed over time, taking on much more serious undertones during the persecutions of the Jews and Christians.
2. These contests now involved persecution and martyrdom.
3. A strong athlete was one who has experienced great faith struggles.
4. Now this term is predominately used again with sports and competitions.
5. Not surprisingly, an athlete must have discipline and training in order to confidently have his opponents (adversaries).

Scripture:

“Remember the days past when, after you had been enlightened, you endured a great contest suffering.” Heb. 10:32

This enlightenment is an ancient metaphor for baptism. This scripture passage refers back to the earlier persecution of the Jewish Christians in Jerusalem. These Hebrew Christians had once successfully endured a great struggle with suffering. Like good athletes, they were encouraged to endure and to do God’s will. In doing so, they might receive their promise (victory).

Other scriptures:

1 Cor.9:24: “Do you not know that the runners in the stadium all run to win the prize?”

1 Cor.9:25: “Every athlete exercises discipline. They seek to win a perishable crown. We seek to win an imperishable crown.” (faithfulness to Christ or even martyrdom)

2Tim.4:7: “I  [Paul] have competed well. I have finished the race.” (The Christian martyr bones were originally called trophies.)

Ignatius’ Letter to Polycarp (110 A.D.): “Bear the maladies of all as a perfect athlete. Where there is more toil, there is much gain.”

Ignatius, a disciple of the Apostle John, was writing to the younger Polycarp, the bishop of Smyrna. Ignatius was encouraging Polycarp to lead his followers and to remain firm in the face of adversity, persecution, and even martyrdom.

Conclusion:

Athletic, athlete, athletics, passion

Old Testament: It is really not that important that 4 Macc. is not considered part of the Septuagint. However, this book helps to shed some light on how the Jews were being persecuted for their faith.

Fellow Christians: enjoy the Olympics, exercise disciple, limber up, and consume your “spiritual electrolytes”. The competition is strong. It’s going to be a tough race!