Discus
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The discus, a heavy, flat, circular object thrown for sport, is not directly mentioned in the Bible. However, the concept of athletic competition, which includes events like discus throwing, can be inferred from various scriptural passages that reference physical training and sports. The ancient Olympic Games, which included discus throwing, were well-known in the Greco-Roman world during the New Testament period.

Historical Context

The discus throw is one of the oldest athletic events, with origins tracing back to ancient Greece. It was a prominent part of the pentathlon in the ancient Olympic Games. The Greeks highly valued physical fitness and athletic prowess, which is reflected in their art and literature. This cultural backdrop provides context for some of the Apostle Paul's writings, as he often used athletic metaphors to convey spiritual truths.

Biblical References and Symbolism

While the Bible does not mention the discus specifically, it does use athletic imagery to illustrate spiritual principles. The Apostle Paul, writing to the early Christian communities, frequently employed metaphors from the world of sports to encourage believers in their spiritual journey.

1. 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 : "Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way as to take the prize. Everyone who competes in the games trains with strict discipline. They do it for a crown that is perishable, but we do it for a crown that is imperishable. Therefore I do not run aimlessly; I do not fight like I am beating the air. No, I discipline my body and make it my slave, so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified."

In this passage, Paul draws a parallel between the rigorous training of athletes and the spiritual discipline required of Christians. The imagery of running a race and competing for a prize would have resonated with his audience, familiar with the athletic contests of the time.

2. Philippians 3:13-14 : "Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize of God’s heavenly calling in Christ Jesus."

Here, Paul emphasizes perseverance and focus, qualities essential for both athletes and believers. The idea of pressing on toward a goal mirrors the determination required in athletic competitions like the discus throw.

3. 2 Timothy 4:7-8 : "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. From now on the crown of righteousness is laid up for me, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but to all who crave His appearing."

Paul reflects on his life as a spiritual athlete who has completed his race, anticipating the reward of a "crown of righteousness." This metaphorical crown contrasts with the temporary laurel wreaths awarded to victors in ancient games.

Cultural and Spiritual Insights

The use of athletic metaphors in the New Testament highlights the importance of discipline, perseverance, and focus in the Christian life. Just as athletes train their bodies and strive for victory, believers are called to cultivate spiritual discipline and pursue the ultimate prize of eternal life with Christ. The imagery of athletic competition serves as a powerful reminder of the dedication and effort required to live a faithful Christian life.

In summary, while the discus itself is not mentioned in the Bible, the principles and values associated with athletic competition are woven throughout the New Testament, offering rich insights into the spiritual journey of believers.
Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary
1. (n.) A quoit; a circular plate of some heavy material intended to be pitched or hurled as a trial of strength and skill.

2. (n.) The exercise with the discus.

3. (n.) A disk. See Disk.

International Standard Bible Encyclopedia
DISCUS

dis'-kus (diskos, "the summons of the discus," 2 Maccabees 4:14 margin, "to the game of the discus," the King James Version "the game of discus"): The discus was a round stone slab or metal plate of considerable weight (a kind of quoit), the contest of throwing which to the greatest distance was one of the exercises in the Greek gymnasia, being included in the pentathlon. It was introduced into Jerusalem by Jason the high priest in the time of Antiochus Epiphanes, 175-164 B.C., in the Palaestra he had formed there in imitation of the Greek games. His conduct led to his being described in 2 Maccabees 4:13, 14 as that "ungodly man" through whom even the priests forsook their duties to play at the discus. A statue of a discobolos (discus-thrower) is in the British Museum. From discus we have the words "disc," "dish," "desk." See GAMES.

W. L. Walker

Library

The Story of a Divine Tragedy
... "Perhaps," the athlete said, "he bought this left-handed catapult thinking
he might throw the discus farther than I can throw it.". ...
//christianbookshelf.org/miller/the city of delight/chapter x the story of.htm

Through-The-Week Activities for Boys' Organized Classes
... Drills Fire, Ambulance, Life-saving Drills Single Stick and Foil, Boxing Swimming
Water Polo Water Sports Jumping and Running Shot Put Discus Throwing Baseball ...
/.../the boy and the sunday school/x through-the-week activities for boys.htm

A Plea Regarding Christians by Athenagoras, the Athenian
... [906] The boy Hyacinthus, loved by both Apollo and Zephyrus, was struck on
the head and killed by a discus, hurled by Apollo at play. ...
/.../richardson/early christian fathers/a plea regarding christians by.htm

Thesaurus
Discus
... strength and skill. 2. (n.) The exercise with the discus. 3. (n.) A disk. See
Disk. Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. DISCUS. dis'-kus (diskos ...
/d/discus.htm - 7k

Discuss (8 Occurrences)

/d/discuss.htm - 9k

Discriminating (2 Occurrences)

/d/discriminating.htm - 7k

Resources
Discus: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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