Brief Overview of ἐμμένω (Strong’s G1696: emménō)

Introduction

The study of Greek words is crucial for understanding the depth and nuance of the New Testament, as well as for appreciating the cultural context in which these texts were written. One such word is ἐμμένω (emménō), a verb that appears in the New Testament with significant theological implications. The word encompasses the ideas of persistence, perseverance, and loyalty—concepts that are vital to the Christian faith. By examining the meaning and usage of ἐμμένω, we can gain a richer understanding of the messages conveyed in the New Testament and how they were perceived in the broader context of ancient Greek culture.

Key Information

• Greek Word: ἐμμένω (emménō) [em-MEN-oh]
• Etymology: Derived from the preposition ἐν (en) meaning “in” or “within,” and the verb μένω (ménō) meaning “to remain” or “to stay.”
• Part of Speech: Verb (present active indicative, first person singular, with no declension).
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon

Primary Meanings

• To remain steadfast: The word ἐμμένω is often used to describe someone who persists in a particular state, belief, or course of action.
• To continue in adherence: It can refer to the act of remaining loyal or faithful to something, such as a doctrine, command, or relationship.

Similar Words:

• μένω (ménō) [MEH-noh]: A closely related verb meaning “to remain” or “to abide.” While μένω can refer to simply staying in a place or condition, ἐμμένω emphasizes persistence within a specific context or adherence to a particular course.
• διαμένω (diaménō) [dee-ah-MEH-noh]: Another related verb that means “to remain through” or “to persist,” often used in contexts of enduring over time or through difficulties.

Further Insights:

• Morphology: ἐμμένω is a compound verb, formed by the preposition ἐν (en) and the verb μένω (ménō). As a compound verb, it intensifies the meaning of μένω, suggesting a stronger sense of persistence or steadfastness. The word is typically found in the present active indicative form, highlighting the ongoing nature of the action.
• Linguistic Features: The prefix ἐν (en) within ἐμμένω adds a dimension of location or state, implying that the action of remaining or persisting is not just passive but involves a conscious choice to stay within a certain belief or condition.

Lexicon Insights

BDAG:
BDAG emphasizes the sense of remaining steadfast or continuing in a state of belief or action. It highlights the use of ἐμμένω in contexts where adherence to a particular teaching or command is emphasized.

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Thayer’s:
Thayer’s lexicon points out the use of ἐμμένω in the New Testament, particularly in situations where persistence in faith or loyalty is required. It describes the word as connoting a firm and unyielding adherence to a belief or practice.

Vine’s:
Vine’s Expository Dictionary notes that ἐμμένω is used to describe a determined continuance, particularly in the sense of holding fast to a doctrine or command. It is often used in the context of religious or moral steadfastness.

LSJ:
The Liddell-Scott-Jones lexicon, while primarily focused on classical Greek, also includes ἐμμένω, describing it as a word that denotes persistence or remaining within a particular course of action, with applications in both secular and philosophical contexts.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance:
Strong’s Concordance lists ἐμμένω as meaning “to stay within” or “to remain steadfast,” with applications in both personal conduct and religious adherence.

Scripture References

• Galatians 3:10 – “For all who rely on works of the law are under a curse; for it is written, ‘Cursed be everyone who does not ἐμμένω (remain) in all things written in the Book of the Law, and do them.'”
• Philippians 1:24 – “But to ἐμμένω (remain) in the flesh is more necessary on your account.”

Classical Usage

Summary of ἐμμένω (G1696: emménō)

The Greek word ἐμμένω (emménō) is a verb that conveys the idea of persistence, steadfastness, and continued adherence to a particular belief, action, or state. It is derived from the combination of the preposition ἐν (en) and the verb μένω (ménō), which together suggest a strong and deliberate act of remaining within a specific condition or commitment. This word is significant in both Biblical and classical Greek contexts, where it is often used to describe a determined and unwavering stance, whether in faith, philosophy, or personal conduct. Understanding ἐμμένω enriches our interpretation of New Testament passages that emphasize the importance of perseverance and loyalty in the Christian life.

Did You Know?

The word ἐμμένω is used in various contexts outside the Bible, including Greek philosophy and legal texts, where it often denotes a firm commitment to principles or laws. This usage highlights the cultural importance of steadfastness and integrity in ancient Greek thought, values that are echoed in the teachings of the New Testament.