Berean Strong's Lexicon gumnasia: Exercise, training, discipline Original Word: γυμνασία Word Origin: Derived from γυμνάζω (gumnazō), meaning "to exercise" or "to train." Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: While there is no direct Hebrew equivalent for "gumnasia," the concept of discipline and training can be related to Hebrew terms such as מוּסָר (mûsār, Strong's 4148), meaning "discipline" or "instruction." Usage: The term "gumnasia" refers to physical exercise or training, often used metaphorically to describe spiritual discipline and moral training. In the New Testament, it is used to contrast physical exercise with spiritual growth and godliness. Cultural and Historical Background: In ancient Greek culture, physical exercise was highly valued and often associated with preparation for athletic competitions, such as the Olympic Games. Gymnasiums were central to Greek education and culture, serving as places for both physical and intellectual training. The Apostle Paul, familiar with Greek culture, used this concept to illustrate the importance of spiritual discipline, drawing a parallel between physical training and the pursuit of godliness. HELPS Word-studies Cognate: 1129 gymnasía (from 1128 /gymnázō, "to train, work out, exercise" and the root of the English term, "gymnasium") – properly, physical training ("bodily exercise"). 1129 /gymnasía ("bodily exercise"), used only in 1 Tim 4:8, refers to bodily disciplines used for extreme ascetic practices. That is, when physical exercise (like yoga) is viewed as "the necessary gateway to experience true spirituality." Thus exercise per se is not discouraged here, only required bodily exercises in mystical-physical teachings like theosophy. This ancient (and current) philosophy contends the discipline of the body is one of life's chief concerns and special physical exercises as necessary for spiritual advancment. (cf. Expositor's Greek Testament). ["The words are to be taken in their literal sense as referring to physical training in the palaestra – boxing, racing, etc. Compare 1 Cor 9:24-27. Some, however, find in them an allusion to current ascetic practices; against which is the statement that such exercise is profitable, though only for a little" (WS, 1035).] NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom gumnazó Definition exercise NASB Translation discipline (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 1129: γυμνασίαγυμνασία, γυμνασιας, ἡ (γυμνάζω); a. properly, the exercise of the body in the palaestra. b. any exercise whatever: σωματική γυμνασία, the exercise of conscientiousness relative to the body, such as is characteristic of ascetics and consists in abstinence from matrimony and certain kinds of food, 1 Timothy 4:8. (4 Macc. 11:19. In Greek writings from Plato, legg. i., p. 648 c. down.) From gumnazo; training, i.e. (figuratively) asceticism -- exercise. see GREEK gumnazo |
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