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Castaway

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What is the meaning of Castaway in the Bible?

The Greek term adokimos, translated as 'castaway' or 'disqualified,' appears in 1 Corinthians 9:27 where Paul describes disciplining his body to avoid being rejected after preaching to others. This same term is used in Romans 1:28 and 2 Timothy 3:8 to describe individuals whose thinking is futile or morally depraved.

TEXTUAL SIGNIFICANCE

Recognizing this term clarifies the athletic metaphor Paul uses, shifting the focus from simple rejection to failing a rigorous test of integrity. This understanding emphasizes the necessity of personal discipline in maintaining faithfulness and avoiding moral corruption.

Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide

Manuscript & Literary Context: Notice how Castaway functions as an authoritative historical witness connecting earlier prophetic promises with scripture's broader fulfillment.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
  • Why did the biblical author mention Castaway in this passage?
  • What cultural or historical assumption does Castaway clarify?
Scripture Passages Mentioned: 1 Corinthians 9:27Romans 1:282 Timothy 3:8

Source Attribution

Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.

How to Cite This Entry

"Castaway." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/castaway/
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