Brief Overview of ἐκλανθάνομαι (Strong’s G1585: eklanthanomai)

Introduction

In the study of biblical Greek, understanding the nuances of specific words is essential for gaining deeper insights into the text. One such word is ἐκλανθάνομαι (eklanthanomai), which is found in both biblical and classical Greek literature. This verb, with its meaning related to forgetting or being forgotten, plays a significant role in conveying the mental and emotional states of individuals in the New Testament. By exploring the intricacies of ἐκλανθάνομαι, we can better understand its usage in the context of ancient Greek culture and its implications for New Testament interpretation.

Key Information

• Greek Word: ἐκλανθάνομαι (eklanthanomai) [ek-lan-THAN-o-mai]
• Etymology: Derived from the prefix ἐκ (ek), meaning “out of,” and the verb λανθάνω (lanthanō), meaning “to escape notice” or “to forget.”
• Part of Speech: Verb (Deponent, Present Middle/Passive Indicative)
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon

Primary Meanings

• To Forget Entirely: The primary meaning of ἐκλανθάνομαι is “to forget entirely” or “to become oblivious to.”
• To Escape Notice: It can also convey the sense of something slipping out of memory, either deliberately or unintentionally.

Similar Words:

• λανθάνω (lanthanō) [lan-THAN-o]: A related verb meaning “to escape notice” or “to be hidden,” often emphasizing the idea of something being overlooked.
• ἐπιλανθάνομαι (epilanthanomai) [ep-i-lan-THAN-o-mai]: Another related verb meaning “to forget,” but with a broader application, often used in the context of forgetting duties or obligations.

Further Insights

• Morphology: ἐκλανθάνομαι is a deponent verb, meaning it has a passive form but an active meaning. This morphological feature is common in Greek and adds a layer of complexity to the verb’s usage, particularly in understanding the subject’s involvement in the action.
• Notable Linguistic Features: The prefix ἐκ- (ek-) intensifies the verb, suggesting a complete or thorough forgetting, rather than a momentary lapse in memory.

Verb Conjugation Chart (Present Middle/Passive Indicative)

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Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: The BDAG lexicon describes ἐκλανθάνομαι as a verb that conveys the sense of a complete or absolute forgetting, often in contexts where memory is crucial.
• Thayer’s: Thayer’s lexicon highlights the verb’s usage in the New Testament, particularly in passages where individuals are described as forgetting something important or significant.
• Vine’s: Vine’s Expository Dictionary notes the verb’s emphasis on a deliberate or profound forgetfulness, especially in relation to spiritual or moral obligations.
• LSJ: The Liddell-Scott-Jones lexicon provides examples from classical Greek literature where ἐκλανθάνομαι is used to describe the forgetting of events, duties, or promises.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s underscores the intensity of the verb, pointing out its role in describing moments of complete forgetfulness or oblivion.

Scripture References:

• Hebrews 12:5: “And you have forgotten (ἐκλανθάνομαι) the exhortation that addresses you as sons.”
• 2 Peter 1:9: “For whoever lacks these qualities is so nearsighted that he is blind, having forgotten (ἐκλανθάνομαι) that he was cleansed from his former sins.”

Classical Usage

In classical Greek literature, ἐκλανθάνομαι is used to describe the act of forgetting something completely, often with significant consequences.

Summary of ἐκλανθάνομαι (G1585: eklanthanomai)

The Greek verb ἐκλανθάνομαι (eklanthanomai) is a powerful term that conveys a deep sense of forgetting or becoming oblivious to something significant. Its usage in both the New Testament and classical Greek literature highlights its importance in contexts where memory and awareness are crucial. Whether used to describe a momentary lapse in judgment or a deliberate act of forgetting, ἐκλανθάνομαι provides valuable insight into the human experience, both in ancient Greek culture and in the spiritual teachings of the New Testament.

Did You Know?

In ancient Greek culture, the act of forgetting was often seen as a serious matter, especially when it involved oaths, duties, or divine commands. The verb ἐκλανθάνομαι, with its emphasis on complete forgetfulness, reflects the gravity of such moments, offering a glimpse into the cultural and moral values of the time.