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what were common ancient medical understandings of such persistent 'thorns' or afflictions?

Adds the setting and its conversation across both testaments.

2 Corinthians 12:7-9

“By the exceeding greatness of the revelations, that I should not be exalted excessively, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to torment me, that I should not be exalted excessively. Concerning this thing, I pleaded with the Lord three times that it might depart from me. He has said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Most gladly therefore I will rather glory in my weaknesses, that the power of Christ may rest on me.”

The Apostle Paul is defending his apostleship against critics in Corinth. To counter their boasting, he recounts extraordinary spiritual experiences but then immediately pivots to a persistent, painful affliction he calls a "thorn in the flesh," which he believes was given to him to keep him humble.

What does it mean to accept a persistent difficulty not as a punishment, but as a condition through which a deeper strength might emerge?

Then — the setting

This letter was likely written by Paul around 55-57 CE from Macedonia. The audience was the Christian community in Corinth, a bustling Roman city known for its diverse culture and various philosophical schools. Ancient medicine, particularly in the Greco-Roman world, was a blend of empirical observation, philosophical theories (like humoral theory, balancing bodily fluids), and religious practices (appeals to gods like Asclepius). Persistent 'thorns' or afflictions like Paul's were often attributed to imbalances, divine displeasure, or malevolent spiritual forces, making Paul's mention of a 'messenger of Satan' resonate with common explanations for chronic suffering.

Across the Testaments

The Old Testament often links suffering with sin or divine judgment (e.g., Deuteronomy 28, prophetic warnings), but also explores suffering as a test or a means of drawing closer to God (e.g., Job, Psalms of lament). Paul's New Testament understanding acknowledges this background but reframes it, suggesting that even a 'messenger of Satan' can be incorporated into God's plan, not just as a test, but as a direct means of revealing divine power in human weakness. This develops the theme by finding purpose and grace within the affliction itself, rather than solely seeking its removal.

Keep thinking

Read alongside it

Job 2:7-10
Job's suffering, though different in origin, explores how one responds to persistent affliction.
Romans 8:35-39
Paul affirms that nothing can separate believers from God's love, even in the midst of suffering.
Hebrews 12:7-11
This passage speaks of suffering as discipline or training that produces righteousness.

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