This noun derives from athletic terminology, referring to contests or competitions, but extends metaphorically to any intense struggle or conflict. The author of Hebrews uses it in Hebrews 10:32 to describe the "conflict of sufferings" the readers endured after their conversion. Classical usage emphasized athletic contests, training, and practice, but the word naturally transferred to the spiritual realm to denote the struggle of faith. The multilingual glosses reflect both meanings: "struggle," "combate" (combat), "Kampf" (fight). The athletic imagery would resonate with readers familiar with Greek games, now applied to their persecution and trials.