[Greek] γυμνάζω (gymnazō), [Latin] exercere: to discipline oneself, to train, to exercise, to exercise naked; 1Tim. 4:7, Heb.5:14, Heb.12:11, 2Pet.2:14
“Bikini Girls”: A 4th century mosaic at Piazza Armerina, Sicily
Background Information:
Gymnasium: The gymnasium in ancient Greece functioned as a training ground or facility for male competitors in public games. Physical training and the maintenance of health and strength were part of the children’s education. This was also a place for socialization and intellectual pursuits. Athletes competed nude, a practice which was said to encourage appreciation of the male body. With the exception of Sparta, women’s work tasks sufficed for their “exercise”. Women were banned from attending the Olympics. Some scholars suggest that virgin girls could attend these events.
Female athletes: After the classical period, attitudes toward female sport changed significantly. It was until the early Roman period that women could compete in combat sports, track and field, and equestrian events. Sparta developed its state program of physical education, exercise, dancing and running. The purpose of this system was to produce beautiful, fit and well-socialized brides and mothers who could produce offspring. Women sponsored gymnasia and athletic events were created. The Roman emperors allowed female athletes to perform before the Roman audience.
Old Testament culture: This term occurs only once in Old Testament apocryphal books. The Idumeans, descendants of the Edomites, held important strongholds, harassed the Jews, and received those who were banished from Jerusalem. The Idumeans occupied the southern parts of the kingdom of Judah. Josephus makes reference to this term in a military sense. Antiquities 6.185 states, “David was burden with his armor, for he had not been exercised to it.” War of the Jews 3.73 states, “For their military exercised differ not at all from the real use of their arms, but every soldier is every day exercised.
New Testament: This term occurs only four times in the New Testament. Paul presents the Christian as a runner who needs discipline in order to run the race (Christian life). However, this term, under the influence of Hellenism, occurs in a figurative sense. Training and discipline are needed to discern good (and bad), to develop devotion, and to develop righteousness. On the other hand, the heart can often be trained (conditioned) by sin. This term conveys the Greek Hellenistic idea of a sound body (and mind), harmony, and perfection.
Scripture:
“Their eyes are full of adultery and insatiable sin. They seduce unstable people, and their hearts are trained in greed.” 2Pet.2:14
Sin can influence or corrupt the heart.
“At the time, all discipline seems a cause not for joy but for pain, yet later it brings the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who are trained for it.” Heb.12:11
Discipline may cause discomfort at first. The end result, however, will be worth it.
“Avoid profane and silly myths. Train yourself for devotion.” 1Tim 4:7
Paul makes reference to the Christian as an athlete. Like the athlete, one must train in order to be fit for devotion.
Conclusion:
Gym, gymnasium, gymnastics, exercise
It was interesting to discover that this term is used in the physical, educational, and social formation of the young boy. With the exception of Sparta’s educational system, this formation would only be available for girls at a later time. This term is also found metaphorically from the perspective of the philosopher. It was also interesting to note that the Olympics banned young women from competing in the games. Yet later, maidens were allowed to participate in Olympic games.
This term is used sparingly in a military context during the Old Testament culture. Paul presents the Christian as one who runs the race (Christian life). Like physical conditioning, one must also train and exercise one’s moral conditioning and character.
It is interesting to note that the Greek term gymnos means naked, poorly clothed, and easily known. That’s the naked truth!