Brief Overview of μνήμη (Strong’s G3420: mnēmē)

Unveiling the Word

In the study of biblical texts, understanding Greek words such as μνήμη (mnēmē) provides essential insight into the depth and nuance of Scripture. Occurring in 2 Peter 1:15, μνήμη is translated as “remembrance” or “memory.” This term holds significance in New Testament contexts where remembering is not just a mental act but a vital aspect of faith and teaching. The word reflects the importance of recalling and passing on truth, especially in the context of spiritual instruction and legacy, as Peter seeks to ensure that after his departure, believers will remember key teachings.

Necessary Information

Greek Word: μνήμη (mnēmē)

Transliteration: mnēmē

Pronunciation: /mnay-MAY/

Etymology: The word μνήμη is derived from the verb μιμνῄσκομαι (mimnēskomai), which means “to remember” or “to be reminded.” The root word shares connections with terms related to memory and memorials, emphasizing the action of preserving important knowledge or events.

Part of Speech: Noun, Feminine

Μνήμη is a feminine noun that denotes the concept of memory, remembrance, or recollection. It is used in contexts that stress the importance of keeping significant truths and events in mind.

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

Defining Meanings

1. Remembrance: The primary meaning of μνήμη is the act of remembering or recalling something important. It is often used in the context of keeping the teachings of Christ alive within the hearts and minds of believers.

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2. Memory: Another layer of μνήμη emphasizes memory in the sense of memorializing or preserving something for the future. In this context, it could refer to spiritual truths, personal legacies, or important events meant to be remembered.

3. Recollection: Μνήμη can also mean the active recollection of past events, calling them to mind with intention and purpose.

Exploring Similar Words

1. Μνημόσυνον (mnēmosynon) [mnay-MAW-soo-non]: This word also means “remembrance” but often with a focus on a memorial or physical act of remembering, such as a commemorative event or marker.

2. Μνήμη (mnēmē) [mnay-MAY]: While closely related, μνήμη emphasizes the inner act of memory, focusing on personal or collective recollection.

3. Μνήμημα (mnēmēma) [mnay-MAY-mah]: Refers to a memorial or monument, often used to describe something physical created to help people remember someone or something.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Case, Number, Gender:

Μνήμη is a feminine noun, and its form changes according to the case in which it is used. Below is a basic declension for μνήμη:

Case Singular Plural

Nominative μνήμη μνήμαι

Genitive μνήμης μνημῶν

Dative μνήμῃ μνήμαις

Accusative μνήμην μνήμας

For a more detailed explanation of Greek declensions, click here for a beginner’s guide to reading Greek.

Studying Lexicon Insights

Greek lexicons describe μνήμη as a word deeply rooted in the idea of conscious recollection, either of past events or teachings. In the New Testament, particularly in 2 Peter 1:15, it highlights the importance of ensuring that spiritual teachings remain alive in the collective memory of believers. Lexicons such as BDAG and Thayer’s emphasize that μνήμη is not just a passive remembrance but an active engagement in keeping the truth alive. Classical Greek sources also use μνήμη to refer to historical or familial memories, often connected with honor and respect for ancestors or traditions.

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

Tracing Related Scriptures

1. 2 Peter 1:15 – “And I will make every effort so that after my departure you may be able at any time to recall [μνήμην] these things.”

2. Philippians 1:3 – “I thank my God in all my remembrance [μνήμῃ] of you.”

3. 1 Thessalonians 3:6 – “But now that Timothy has come to us from you, and has brought us the good news of your faith and love and reported that you always remember [μνήμῃ] us kindly…”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Author Name of Work Example Text

Plato Phaedrus “Memory [μνήμη] is the scribe of the soul.”

Homer Iliad “The memory [μνήμη] of fallen heroes must be preserved.”

Septuagint Deuteronomy 32:7 “Remember [μνήμην] the days of old; consider the years of past generations.”

Noteworthy Summary

The word μνήμη (mnēmē) encapsulates the idea of memory, remembrance, and recollection. Its usage in the New Testament, particularly in 2 Peter 1:15, highlights the importance of remembering key teachings and passing on vital spiritual truths. This word is not merely about passive memory but an active engagement with the past to influence the present and future. Classical Greek writers and thinkers also valued μνήμη for its role in preserving history, wisdom, and tradition, making it a word of both personal and collective importance.

Did You Know?

1. The word μνήμη is related to the English word “mnemonic,” a tool used to aid memory.

2. In ancient Greek culture, μνήμη was often associated with honoring ancestors and keeping their legacies alive.

3. Plato described memory (μνήμη) as one of the most important faculties of the soul, essential for the pursuit of truth.