Brief Overview of μανθάνω (Strong’s G3129: manthanō)

Unveiling the Word

Understanding Greek verbs like μανθάνω (manthanō) is crucial for delving into the depths of New Testament theology and ancient Greek culture. This word, appearing first in Matthew 9:13, means “to learn” or “to understand.” It highlights the process of gaining knowledge or comprehension, whether through study, observation, or experience. In the New Testament context, μανθάνω is particularly significant for its role in discipleship, as it encompasses both intellectual and practical learning. It suggests not just acquiring information, but also internalizing and applying it, which is foundational for following Jesus and living out His teachings.

Necessary Information

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Greek Word: μανθάνω (manthanō) [mahn-THAH-noh]

Etymology: The root of μανθάνω is connected to the Indo-European root *men-, meaning “to think” or “to have in mind.” It is related to the word μαθητής (mathētēs), meaning “disciple” or “learner.” This relationship highlights the close link between learning and discipleship in the Greek understanding, where knowledge and personal growth are seen as intertwined processes.

Part of Speech: Verb. As a verb, μανθάνω describes an action or process, emphasizing the act of learning or understanding. It is used in various grammatical contexts to convey nuances of acquiring knowledge or coming to understand something.

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Defining Meanings

1. To Learn by Instruction: This is the most common meaning of μανθάνω. It denotes learning through teaching or instruction, as seen in passages where Jesus instructs His followers or the apostles teach the early church.
2. To Understand or Comprehend: In some contexts, μανθάνω signifies gaining insight or understanding, often through reflective thought or experience. This use is evident in passages where individuals come to grasp spiritual truths or moral lessons.
3. To Learn by Practice or Habit: μανθάνω can also imply learning through repetition or habit, suggesting that true learning involves not just intellectual assent but also habitual practice and lived experience.

Exploring Similar Words

1. διδάσκω (didaskō) [dee-DAS-koh]: Meaning “to teach,” διδάσκω is often paired with μανθάνω in educational contexts. While μανθάνω focuses on the learning process, διδάσκω emphasizes the act of imparting knowledge.
2. γινώσκω (ginōskō) [ghee-NOHS-koh]: Meaning “to know” or “to recognize,” γινώσκω often refers to knowledge gained through experience or acquaintance, highlighting a more relational or intuitive form of understanding compared to μανθάνω.
3. ἐπίσταμαι (epistamai) [eh-PEE-stah-my]: Meaning “to be skilled in” or “to be acquainted with,” this word emphasizes practical knowledge or expertise, often in contrast to the more general or theoretical learning suggested by μανθάνω.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Tense, Voice, Mood:
μανθάνω is found in various tenses in the New Testament, each providing different shades of meaning:

• Present Tense: Ongoing or habitual learning (e.g., Matthew 9:13, “Go and learn what this means”).
• Aorist Tense: A completed action of learning or coming to understand (e.g., Philippians 4:11, “I have learned to be content”).
• Perfect Tense: A completed action with present implications, emphasizing the result of having learned something.

Person and Number:
The verb is used in various persons and numbers, showing its applicability to both individual and collective contexts of learning. For example, in Philippians 4:11, Paul uses the first person singular to describe his personal learning experience, while in Ephesians 4:20, it is used in the second person plural to address the collective learning of the Ephesian church.

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Studying Lexicon Insights

Lexicon studies of μανθάνω reveal its nuanced use in both secular and religious contexts. In the New Testament, it frequently denotes spiritual learning, whether through the teachings of Jesus or the apostles. Classical Greek usage often involves philosophical or rhetorical learning, indicating a deep engagement with ideas and moral principles. In Christian theology, the word underscores the importance of being a disciple, one who not only listens to teachings but also internalizes and lives by them.

This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

1. Matthew 9:13: “Go and learn [μανθάνω] what this means: ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’” Here, Jesus emphasizes the importance of understanding the heart of God’s commands.
2. Philippians 4:11: “I have learned [ἔμαθον] to be content whatever the circumstances.” Paul speaks of learning contentment, highlighting the practical aspect of μανθάνω.
3. Ephesians 4:20: “That, however, is not the way you learned [ἐμάθετε] Christ!” This verse contrasts true learning in Christ with sinful behavior.

Analyzing Classical Usage

In classical Greek literature, μανθάνω is used by philosophers like Plato and Aristotle to describe the process of intellectual and moral learning.

Noteworthy Summary

μανθάνω is a rich and versatile verb that encapsulates the process of learning in both intellectual and practical dimensions. It is foundational to the concept of discipleship in the New Testament, urging believers not just to know Christ’s teachings but to live them out. Its classical roots also highlight its role in philosophical thought, emphasizing the pursuit of wisdom and moral excellence.

Did You Know?

1. The word μανθάνω is related to the English word “mathematics,” both derived from the idea of learning or understanding complex concepts.
2. In ancient Greek education, μανθάνω was central to the concept of paideia, the process of forming a well-rounded and virtuous citizen.
3. The verb appears over 25 times in the New Testament, emphasizing the importance of learning and teaching in the early Christian community.