[Greek] ὄγκος (ogkos), [Latin] impedimenta: hindrance, bulk, baggage, impediment, encumbrance, heaviness, challenge, swelling, tumor, volume, loftiness; Heb.12:1
The Roman army bringing a supply/baggage wagon (impedimenta) for support for extended campaigns
Background Information:
Roman army: During the Roman Empire, the Roman armies often went out on various military campaigns. Supply wagons or trains were needed to carry supplies, provisions, food, equipment, and weapons. Large amounts of provisions and supplies were needed to support an extended campaign. These baggage vehicles were called impedimenta. In the event of taking on casualties in battle, the wounded soldiers were also placed in and cared for in these vehicles. These vehicles, travelling at the end of the Roman regiment, often slowed down or impeded the progress of the soldiers.
New Testament: This Greek term is only found in Hebrews 12:1-2. These scripture passages sets the scene of those running a race before a great cloud of witnesses (saints). Essentially, this race is a metaphor for the Christian way of life. These Christians are being encouraged to finish the race, by focusing on Jesus. In order to finish the race, it may be necessary to get rid of any burden, hindrance, or sin in this journey.
Scripture:
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us rid ourselves of every burden and sin and clings to us and persevere in running the race that lies before us.” Heb. 12:1
This brings to mind an athletic contest (running race) before the many spectators. Christians are called to reflect on what they need to do remove any impediments, hindrances, “baggage”, and sins that will slow them down in their race to live the Christian way of life.
Oncology: In the Greek language, the “g” sound produces a nasal “n” sound. In other words, the Greek ogkos is pronounced “onkos”. Oncology is the study and treatment of cancerous and non-cancerous tumors. Tumors can sometimes become an abnormal swelling or mass of tissue.
Conclusion:
Oncology, oncologist, impediment, impede
I had an interesting experience learning about the meaning of this term. First of all, I was already aware of this scriptural passage about the Christian removing any burdens to finish this race. Recently, I attended a vocations workshop at St. Mary’s Seminary in Houston, Texas. In his homily, our local Cardinal mentioned that the Latin impedimenta means baggage (which slows or hinders, or prevents our response to Jesus). Ok. That sounds interesting.
I really did not think much about it. Then I later discovered that ogkos would refer to that burden in Heb.12:1. I think it is quite interesting how ogkos becomes linked with burdens, slowing us down. Perhaps, these could be situations where God causes us slow down to re-evaluate our situation (there is something wrong). To be honest, one doesn’t need to have a sickness to be in this situation! This could apply to any of us. Not surprisingly, medical issues, such as cancer, can become an overwhelming burden.
Many of us are still willing choose to carry our own “baggage” (bad habits, vices, etc.) in life. Also, many of us, because of circumstances, often are forced to carry other burdens and challenges in life, making this a difficult journey. Yet, when we reach our final destination (heaven), we can leave all this baggage behind.