[Greek] νίκη (nikē), [Latin] victoria: victory, conquest, success; 1Jn.5:4, Mt.12:20, 1Cor.15:54-55,57
Statue of the goddess Nike in Rhodes, Greece
Background information:
Greek Hellenism: This term, meaning victory or superiority, can be used in a physical, legal, psychological, and metaphorical sense. Victories can range from public massacres to hidden victories. Such examples include battle (war), contests, Olympic sports, persuasion, suggestions, and choices (decisions). True victory can sometimes be a hidden victory. It is sometimes mentioned that a victory cannot be an achievement by mortals alone. Only gods (with divine power) can bring this about. Believers would build monuments to Nike (Greek goddess of victory) or to Victoria (Roman goddess of victory) for inspiration and help.
Thucydides’ The Peloponnesian War 7.34 states “The Athenians now sailed back to Naupactus and the Corinthians immediately set up a trophy (monument) as victors, because they disabled a greater number of the enemy’s ships.” Xenophon’s Agesilaus 9.7 states “How clearly his true nobility comes out in his opinion that a victory in the chariot race over private citizens would not add a whit to his renown. But if he held the first place in the affection of the people, and gained the most friends, then he would be victorious in the noblest and most splendid contests.” Sophocles’ Oedipus at Colunus 1224-1228 states “Not to be born wins any accounting; and by far second best is when is born to return to whence one has come as quickly as possible.” Epictetus’ Arrian Discourses 1.18.22 states that one, who refuses to deviate from the right path, is an unconquerable fighter. This person’s victoriousness is independent of public success. He can be victorious even when he marches from defeat to defeat.
Old Testament: This term nike conveys victory and faithfulness. Victory is illustrated with the use of weapons (in battle), words, wisdom and faithfulness. Israel’s (and the prophets’) victory ultimately represent God’s victory. The nuanced and various examples of faithfulness include having a clean (pure) heart, being justified, leading in songs of praise, and being faithful. Interestingly, this term applies to the phrase ‘For the leader’, repeatedly shown in the first line of many psalms. While not being obvious, this idea suggests the power (victory) of these songs of prayer. 4 Maccabees provides examples of the witness of the victory of righteousness against persecution, even to the point of martyrdom.
“For the leader. Of David (Psa.11:1). Is it in vain that I have kept my heart pure (Psa.73:13). Who can say, ‘I have made my heart clean’ (Prov.20:19). He will destroy death forever (Isa.25:8). For victory in war does not depend upon the size of the army, but on strength that comes from heaven (1Macc.3:19). The Lord who shows great kindness to Israel and grants them victory (2Macc.10:38). Giving his men the battle cry ‘God’s Victory’, he made a night attack on the king’s pavilion (2Macc.13:15). For on that day virtue gave the award and tested them for their endurance. The prize was immortality in endless life (4Macc.17:12). Like a noble athlete the old man, while being beaten, was victorious over his torturers (4Macc.6:10).
New Testament: This term, essentially meaning victory, refers to the victory of the Servant of God (Christ), victory over death, and faith that conquers the world. Christ is referenced to as the bruised reed who will not break, bringing justice to victory (Isa.41:1-4). Paul mentions that death is swallowed up in victory. Paul metaphorically asks ‘Death, where is your victory?’ The sting of death is sin (Isa.25:8). John states that those, who are begotten by God, conquer the world. Faith is this victory which conquers the world.
Scripture:
“A bruised reed He will not break, a smoldering wick He will not quench, until He brings justice to victory.” Mt.12:20
Matthew speaks of the victory of the Servant of God, Christ.
“Death is swallowed up in victory. Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death is your sting?” 1Cor.15:54-55
Paul states that God will conquer death (and sin).
“For whoever is begotten by God conquers the world. And the victory that conquers the world is our faith.” 1Jn.5:4
John states that faith brings victory
Conclusion:
Nike, victory, victorius
In the Greek Hellenistic era, it was interesting to discover the more nuanced meanings of this term. Victories can take on many forms and senses. Such examples include hidden or unintended victories. Sophocles’ Oedipus’ ‘victory’ of not being born would have spared him of living his tragic life of death and incest. Epictetus introduces the notion of a moral victory.
It has been said that Plato’s concept of essence inspired the marketing of Nike. Plato’s concept of essence is that the deeply held belief (inside a person) that the idea of a thing is that thing. (Example: one’s idea of a chair has more “chairness” that any manufactured chair). One can achieve it if one believes.
It is also interesting to note that victory is frequently defined in relationship (faithfulness) to God. I was surprised that a leader of a psalm of praise can claim victory. Even though 4Maccabees is not considered a canonical book, this book presents important elements such as a noble athlete, devout reason, endurance, and immortality.
Paul also states that the Christian is like an athlete running the Christian race (life). Like an athlete, the Christian requires training and perseverance to finish the race and attain the crown of salvation.
We are all athletes running this race (life). I challenge each and every one of you to reflect on this.
Support your country’s athletes at the Tokyo Olympics. Just do it!