Brief Overview of μιμέομαι (Strong’s G3401: miméomai)

Unveiling the Word

In biblical studies, the word μιμέομαι (miméomai) holds particular significance, especially in the context of discipleship and Christian conduct. Found in passages such as 2 Thessalonians 3:7, this verb is central to the concept of imitation, which is a key theme in Paul’s letters. The word is frequently used to encourage believers to follow the examples set by Christ and the apostles. Understanding μιμέομαι not only enhances one’s interpretation of New Testament teachings but also offers insight into ancient Greek culture, where imitation was highly valued in areas such as philosophy and moral instruction.

Necessary Information

Greek Word: μιμέομαι (miméomai), pronounced mee-MEH-oh-my.

Etymology: The word μιμέομαι derives from the Greek root μῖμος (mimos), meaning “imitator” or “actor.” This root is the origin of the English word “mimic.” In Greek culture, μῖμος referred to someone who imitated the actions, speech, or behavior of others, often in a theatrical or moral context.

Part of Speech: μιμέομαι is a verb. It is often used in the middle voice, which in Greek typically conveys reflexive or reciprocal action, emphasizing the personal involvement of the one doing the imitating.

The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Defining Meanings

1. To Imitate or Follow: The primary meaning of μιμέομαι is to imitate or follow the example of another. This is the sense used in 2 Thessalonians 3:7, where Paul urges the believers to imitate his behavior as a model of Christian living.

2. To Emulate: A secondary meaning involves a deeper sense of emulation, not just mimicking actions but embodying the virtues, attitudes, and character traits of the one being imitated. This involves a more transformative imitation, where one internalizes and lives out the values of another.

3. To Imitate in Conduct: The word is also used to describe following someone’s lifestyle or moral conduct. This aligns with Paul’s call for believers to imitate his Christ-centered way of life, not just externally, but in their inner motivations and actions.

Exploring Similar Words

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1. ἀκολουθέω (akoloutheó) [pronunciation: ah-koh-loo-THEH-oh]: This word means “to follow” in a more physical or literal sense, like following someone down a path. While μιμέομαι involves imitation, ἀκολουθέω often emphasizes discipleship in a more tangible, directional way.

2. παρακολουθέω (parakoloutheó) [pronunciation: par-ah-koh-loo-THEH-oh]: Meaning “to accompany” or “to closely follow,” this word implies close observation, much like a disciple following a teacher’s example. It overlaps with μιμέομαι in terms of closely following someone’s example but lacks the nuance of emulating or imitating.

3. μιμήτης (mimētēs) [pronunciation: mee-MAY-tace]: This is a noun that refers to an imitator or follower. It is directly related to μιμέομαι, indicating someone who practices imitation.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Tense, Voice, Mood: μιμέομαι is a middle voice verb in Greek, emphasizing personal engagement in the act of imitation. It can appear in various tenses, including the present and aorist, which indicate continuous or punctiliar action, respectively.

Person Singular Plural

1st μιμοῦμαι μιμούμεθα

2nd μιμῇ μιμεῖσθε

3rd μιμεῖται μιμοῦνται

Studying Lexicon Insights

μίμομαι, as reflected in major Greek lexicons, carries the connotation of purposeful imitation, especially in the ethical and spiritual domains. In the New Testament, the word μιμέομαι is mostly used by Paul to exhort believers to follow the example of other believers who demonstrate Christ-like behavior. In classical Greek literature, μιμέομαι often referred to philosophical imitation, where students followed the behavior and teachings of their instructors. This reflects the deeper moral and ethical dimension of imitation beyond mere external mimicry.

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

Tracing Related Scriptures

1. 2 Thessalonians 3:7: “For you yourselves know how you ought to follow [μιμέομαι] our example. We were not idle when we were with you.”

2. Hebrews 13:7: “Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate [μιμέομαι] their faith.”

3. 1 Corinthians 11:1: “Follow [μιμέομαι] my example, as I follow the example of Christ.”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Author Name of Work Text with μιμέομαι

Plato Republic Used to describe the imitation of virtues.

Aristotle Poetics Refers to imitation in art and theater.

Xenophon Memorabilia Discusses imitation of Socratic behavior.

Noteworthy Summary

The verb μιμέομαι (Strong’s G3401) carries a profound meaning in both biblical and classical Greek contexts. In the New Testament, it encourages believers to imitate Christ and other righteous examples. This imitation is not mere mimicry but a deep, transformative following of conduct, values, and lifestyle. In classical Greek thought, μιμέομαι was used in philosophical and artistic contexts, indicating the importance of imitation in shaping moral character.

Did You Know?

• The word μιμέομαι is the root of the English word “mimic.”

• In ancient Greek culture, imitation was seen as a powerful educational tool, particularly in moral philosophy.

• Paul’s use of μιμέομαι in his epistles reflects the Jewish tradition of discipleship, where followers closely observed and imitated their teachers’ lives and teachings.