Col 2:8 | TNotes | STEP | 2:8 The Greek word philosophia referred to everything from the metaphysics of Plato to the religious teaching of cults. Paul does not condemn philosophy per se, but only empty philosophical speculation that stands opposed to the Good News. • the spiritual powers of this world: or the spiritual principles of the world; also in 2:20 ): This phrase may refer to elementary teaching that is characteristic of this world (see Heb 5:12 ), or to spiritual beings who were thought to have a decisive influence on the course of events (see also Col 2:15 , 20 ; Gal 4:3 ).

cHeb 5:12►

dCol 2:15►

fGal 4:3►

‏ Colossians 2:8

2:8 ^a The Greek word philosophia referred to everything from the metaphysics of Plato to the religious teaching of cults. Paul does not condemn philosophy per se, but only empty philosophical speculation that stands opposed to the Good News.

• the spiritual powers of this world: or the spiritual principles of the world; also in 2:20 ^b): This phrase may refer to elementary teaching that is characteristic of this world (see Heb 5:12 ^c), or to spiritual beings who were thought to have a decisive influence on the course of events (see also Col 2:15 ^d, 20 ^e; Gal 4:3 ^f).