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Introduction
Understanding the original Greek words in the Bible is crucial for interpreting its teachings accurately and appreciating the cultural and philosophical contexts in which these texts were written. The Greek word ἐπιλησμονή (epilēsmónē), Strong’s G1953, is a noun that carries the idea of forgetfulness or oblivion. This term has significant relevance in New Testament interpretation, especially in passages that discuss spiritual vigilance and the consequences of neglect. Additionally, its use in ancient Greek literature sheds light on how ancient Greeks understood memory, awareness, and the human condition.
Key Information
- The Greek Word: ἐπιλησμονή (epilēsmónē) [eh-pee-lays-MO-nay]
- Etymology root words and their meanings: Derived from ἐπί (epi, “upon” or “over”) and λήθω (lēthō, “to forget”), which together convey the idea of being under the influence of forgetfulness or negligence.
- Part of Speech: Noun, feminine; first declension.
- The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.
Primary Meanings
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- Forgetfulness, oblivion.
- Neglect, particularly in a spiritual or moral sense.
Similar Words: The word λῆθη (lḗthē) [LAY-thay], which means “forgetfulness” or “oblivion,” is closely related to ἐπιλησμονή. While λῆθη is often used to refer to a general state of forgetting or amnesia, ἐπιλησμονή (epilēsmónē) emphasizes the act or process of forgetting, often with an underlying implication of neglect or carelessness. Another related word is μνημονεύω (mnēmoneúō) [mnay-mo-NE-vo], meaning “to remember,” which serves as the antonym and provides a contrast to the concept of forgetfulness.
Further Insights: As a first declension feminine noun, ἐπιλησμονή follows a specific pattern in its inflectional forms. Below is a table showing the full declension of ἐπιλησμονή:
| Case | Singular | Plural |
|---|---|---|
| Nominative | ἐπιλησμονή | ἐπιλησμοναί |
| Genitive | ἐπιλησμονῆς | ἐπιλησμονῶν |
| Dative | ἐπιλησμονῇ | ἐπιλησμοναῖς |
| Accusative | ἐπιλησμονήν | ἐπιλησμονάς |
| Vocative | ἐπιλησμονή | ἐπιλησμοναί |
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Lexicon Insights
- BDAG: Defines ἐπιλησμονή as “forgetfulness” or “oblivion,” often highlighting contexts where the word is used to imply a lack of attention or care, particularly in spiritual or ethical matters.
- Thayers: Explains ἐπιλησμονή as “forgetfulness,” particularly in a moral or spiritual context, where it denotes a failure to remember important duties or teachings.
- Vines: Notes that ἐπιλησμονή appears in contexts that emphasize a lapse in memory or attention, often leading to spiritual negligence or error.
- LSJ: Lists ἐπιλησμονή as “oblivion” or “forgetfulness,” indicating both the passive state of forgetting and the active sense of neglect. It appears in various classical texts where the failure to remember or act correctly is highlighted.
- Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Describes ἐπιλησμονή as “forgetfulness,” often related to moral or spiritual negligence, emphasizing the consequences of failing to recall or apply wisdom or guidance.
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Related Scripture References
- James 1:25: “But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it—not forgetting (ἐπιλησμονῇ) what they have heard, but doing it—they will be blessed in what they do.”
Classical Usage
| Author | Name of Work | English Text |
|---|---|---|
| Plato | Phaedrus | “A soul forgets itself and falls into forgetfulness (ἐπιλησμονῇ) when it ceases to pursue knowledge.” |
| Aristotle | Nicomachean Ethics | “Forgetfulness (ἐπιλησμονῇ) of duty can lead to the downfall of a virtuous man.” |
| Epictetus | Discourses | “In the midst of luxury, there is always the danger of falling into forgetfulness (ἐπιλησμονῇ) of virtue.” |
| Septuagint | Psalm 119:93 | “I will never forget (ἐπιλησμονῇ) your precepts, for by them you have preserved my life.” |
| Septuagint | Isaiah 49:15 | “Can a woman forget (ἐπιλησμονῇ) her nursing child, that she should have no compassion on the son of her womb?” |
| Septuagint | Proverbs 3:1 | “My son, do not forget (ἐπιλησμονῇ) my teaching, but let your heart keep my commandments.” |
Summary of ἐπιλησμονή (G1953)
The Greek word ἐπιλησμονή (epilēsmónē) is a noun that conveys the idea of forgetfulness or neglect. In the New Testament, it is used to warn against the dangers of spiritual negligence, emphasizing the importance of remembering God’s laws and commands. The word also appears in classical Greek literature, where it is used to discuss the consequences of forgetting one’s duties or the pursuit of virtue. Its related words provide additional layers of meaning, contrasting forgetfulness with remembrance and highlighting the significance of maintaining awareness and focus in both spiritual and ethical matters.
Did You Know?
The concept of ἐπιλησμονή (epilēsmónē) is deeply connected to ancient Greek philosophy, where it was often discussed in the context of education and ethics. Ancient thinkers like Plato and Aristotle warned that forgetfulness could lead to the loss of wisdom and virtue, underscoring the idea that memory is crucial not only for knowledge but also for moral development and societal well-being.
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