Strong's Lexicon gumnazó: To train, exercise, discipline Original Word: γυμνάζω Word Origin: Derived from γυμνός (gumnos), meaning "naked" or "bare," which relates to the practice of exercising unclothed in ancient Greek culture. Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: While there is no direct Hebrew equivalent to "gumnazó," the concept of discipline and training can be related to Hebrew words like יָסַר (yasar), meaning "to discipline" or "to instruct." Usage: The verb "gumnazó" primarily means to train or exercise, often in the context of physical training. In the New Testament, it is used metaphorically to describe spiritual discipline and moral training. The term implies rigorous and consistent effort, akin to the dedication of an athlete preparing for competition. Cultural and Historical Background: In ancient Greek culture, physical training was highly valued, and gymnasiums were central to education and social life. The Greeks believed in the harmony of body and mind, and physical exercise was seen as essential for developing both. This cultural backdrop provides a vivid metaphor for spiritual discipline in the New Testament, where believers are encouraged to pursue godliness with the same dedication as an athlete. HELPS Word-studies 1128 gymnázō (from 1131 /gymnós, "to train, naked or wearing a loin cloth") – properly, naked or lightly clad, as with an ancient Greek athlete in a sporting event; (figuratively) to train with one's full effort, i.e. with complete physical, emotional force like when working out intensely in a gymnasium. ["Gym" and "gymnasium" come from this same root.] 1128 /gymnázō ("exert intensely, like a pro-athlete") presumes full discipline, necessary to be in "top working condition" (full agility, skill, endurance). This is gained only from constant, rigorous training (exercise). 1128 (gymnázō) conveys acquiring proficiency through practice – regular exercise with graduated resistance (the physical element is also included with the spiritual of being in "God's gymnasium"). NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom gumnos Definition to exercise naked, to train NASB Translation discipline (1), trained (3). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 1128: γυμνάζωγυμνάζω; (perfect passive participle γεγυμνασμενοσ'; (γυμνός); common in Greek writings from Aeschylus down; 1. properly, to exercise naked (in the palaestra). 2. to exercise vigorously, in any way, either the body or the mind: ἑαυτόν πρός εὐσέβειαν, of one who strives earnestly to become godly, 1 Timothy 4:7; γεγυμνασμενος exercised, Hebrews 5:14; Hebrews 12:11; καρδίαν γεγυμνασμένην πλεονεξίας (Rec. πλεονεξίαις), a soul that covetousness or the love of gain has trained in its crafty ways, 2 Peter 2:14; cf. Winer's Grammar, § 30, 4. From gumnos; to practise naked (in the games), i.e. Train (figuratively) -- exercise. see GREEK gumnos Englishman's Concordance 1 Timothy 4:7 V-PMA-2SGRK: μύθους παραιτοῦ γύμναζε δὲ σεαυτὸν NAS: hand, discipline yourself KJV: and exercise thyself INT: fables refuse train moreover yourself Hebrews 5:14 V-RPM/P-ANP Hebrews 12:11 V-RPM/P-DMP 2 Peter 2:14 V-RPM/P-AFS Strong's Greek 1128 |
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