[Greek] τραχηλίζω (trachēlizō), [Latin] apertus: to take by the throat, laid bare, to seize the throat (trachea), to expose the neck, to bend the neck, to grip the neck; Heb. 4:13
Background Information:
Pankration: Pankration literally means all of power, from pan- (all) and kratos (strength). This was an ancient mixed martial arts sports, combing wrestling moves and boxing. This sport, introduced in the Greek Olympics in 648 B.C., involved kicking, holds, locks, and chokes. The only things not acceptable were biting, gouging out the opponent’s eyes and attacking the groin. The contest wouldn’t finish until the loser submitted or was knocked out. Pankration was the favorite sport of spectators.
Scripture:
“No creature is concealed from Him, but everything is naked and exposed to the eyes of Him to whom we must render an account.” Heb. 4:13
The scripture passage presents a figurative meaning of having one’s neck exposed to all and laid bare on the altar. As we will be easily exposed by God, we will have to face His judgment.
“I will seize fate by the throat. It shall certainly not bend and crush me completely” Beethoven (1801)
Beethoven: Beethoven was becoming deaf. He saw his deafness as a challenge to fight and overcome. Beethoven’s greatest gift (sense) was hearing. What a cruel irony in not being able to hear the music you compose!
Conclusion:
Trachea, aperture
The ultimate referee God, who sees all our pinfalls, losses, tap outs, submissions, intentional disqualifications, and low blows in life, will make the best decision for each of us.
When I think about the sport Pankration, professional wrestling immediately comes to mind. I see that big bad guy ready to give his opponent a choke slam in the ring. It could be the Undertaker, the Big Show, or even Kane! Or MMA sports may come to mind for others. Just like those many years ago, we see how the fans get riled up, cheering for the good guy (face) or yell at the bad guy (heel). At least they are clothed!
I am a big Beethoven fan. I cannot even imagine the anguish and vulnerability he must have faced in his career. Yet he continued to fight his opponent (deafness).