ἀθλέω

The Greek word ἀθλέω (athleō) means "to compete". It is a verb that describes an action of contest or rivalry. With only two occurrences in the Bible, its usage is scarce but significant. Athleō implies an act of engaging in competition, either to win or to prove one's worth. The word carries no negative connotations but simply denotes a contest between individuals or entities. The significance of athleō is rooted in the cultural and social value of competition in ancient Greek society, where athletic competitions like the Olympic Games were highly esteemed. The presence of this word in the Bible may be an attempt to convey the idea of spiritual competition, highlighting the idea that one can either "compete" for the crown of life or engage in futile rivalry.