σκοπός
a goal
Definition
The Greek word σκοπός (skopos) primarily means a 'goal' or 'mark' that one aims at, like a target in archery. In its only New Testament occurrence, Paul uses it metaphorically to describe the spiritual objective or prize of the Christian life (Philippians 3:14). While its basic sense is a physical target, the biblical usage focuses entirely on this figurative meaning of a purposeful end or aspiration.
Biblical Usage
This word is used only once in the New Testament, in Philippians 3:14. Paul employs it in the context of his personal spiritual journey, stating he presses on toward the 'goal' (σκοπός) for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. The usage is entirely metaphorical, describing the singular, focused aim of the Christian life.
Etymology
Derived from the verb σκέπτομαι (sképtomai), meaning 'to look at, examine, consider.' The noun σκοπός originally referred to a 'watcher' or 'lookout,' and by extension, the 'mark' or 'target' one watches and aims for. This development from observer to the object of observation illustrates its core idea of a focused aim.
Semantic Range
This word is theologically significant as it encapsulates the Christian life as one of purposeful, forward-moving pursuit. It emphasizes that faith is not passive but is directed toward a clear objective—the fullness of life in Christ. Understanding σκοπός enriches reading by highlighting the intentionality and endurance required in spiritual growth, contrasting with aimless living.
In the Greco-Roman world, σκοπός was a common term from athletics (e.g., a finish line or archery target) and military contexts (e.g., a watchpost). Paul's audience would immediately grasp the imagery of focused effort and discipline. This differs from a modern, more abstract understanding of a 'goal,' as it carried concrete associations of visible marks and strenuous effort to reach them.
βραβεῖον (brabeion, G1017) — the 'prize' or 'award' itself, whereas σκοπός is the goal or mark aimed at to win it. τέλος (telos, G5056) — the 'end' or 'completion,' focusing more on the final outcome than the targeted aim.
Word Details
How this works
Definitions are from the Dodson Greek-English Lexicon, a concise public-domain resource suitable for introductory word study. Brief glosses are supplemented by STEPBible TBESG data (CC BY 4.0). For advanced research, standard scholarly references include BDAG (Danker, 3rd ed.) and LSJ.
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