(A) Reference in the New Testament is made to gladiatorial shows and fights with wild beasts (1 Corinthians 15:32 ). These were common among the Romans, and sometimes on a large scale.
(B) Allusion is frequently made to the Grecian gymnastic contests (Galatians 2:2; 5:7; Philippians 2:16; 3:14; 1 Timothy 6:12; 2 Timothy 2:5; Hebrews 12:1,4,12 ). These were very numerous. The Olympic, Pythian, Nemean, and Isthmian games were esteemed as of great national importance, and the victors at any of these games of wrestling, racing, etc., were esteemed as the noblest and the happiest of mortals.
Copyright StatementThese dictionary topics are from M.G. Easton M.A., D.D., Illustrated Bible Dictionary, Third Edition, published by Thomas Nelson, 1897. Public Domain.
Bibliography InformationEaston, Matthew George. Entry for 'Games'. Easton's Bible Dictionary. https://www.studylight.org/dictionaries/eng/ebd/g/games.html. 1897.
Easton's Bible Dictionary was written by Matthew George Easton, who lived from 1823-1894. This Scottish Presbyterian's other significant literary achievements were his English translations of two of Franz Delitzsch's commentaries. The nearly 4,000 entries cover material from Aaron to Zuzims!Wikipedia
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