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Unveiling the Word

In the study of biblical Greek, understanding the precise meanings of key terms opens up deeper layers of the text. One such word is μνημονεύω (mnēmoneuō), a verb that means “to remember” or “to call to mind.” This word appears in significant passages in the New Testament, such as Matthew 16:9, where Jesus asks the disciples if they remember the feeding of the multitudes. The act of remembering in biblical contexts is often associated with recalling God’s actions, promises, and teachings, making it an essential part of faith and spiritual reflection. In ancient Greek culture, memory also had cultural and philosophical significance, often tied to honor, learning, and the preservation of wisdom.

Necessary Information

Greek Word: μνημονεύω (mnēmoneuō)

Transliteration: mnēmoneuō

Pronunciation: /mnay-mo-NEH-oo/

Etymology: The root of μνημονεύω comes from μνήμη (mnēmē), meaning “memory” or “remembrance.” It is closely related to μνήμη, and both share the verb μιμνῄσκομαι (mimnēskomai), which also means “to remember.” The concept of memory in Greek thought was deeply tied to the preservation of knowledge and the perpetuation of cultural values.

Part of Speech: Verb

As a verb, μνημονεύω primarily denotes the action of remembering, making it an active verb in many cases where individuals are encouraged to recall past events, teachings, or truths.

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

Defining Meanings

1. To Remember: The most basic meaning of μνημονεύω is the act of calling something to mind. In Matthew 16:9, Jesus uses this word to urge His disciples to remember the miracles He performed.

2. To Recollect: In many cases, μνημονεύω can be translated as “to recollect,” meaning to bring past events or lessons into the present for reflection or application.

3. To Keep in Mind: In certain contexts, μνημονεύω can imply actively keeping something in mind for ongoing consideration or reflection, emphasizing the importance of sustained memory rather than a fleeting thought.

Exploring Similar Words

1. Μιμνῄσκομαι (mimnēskomai) [mim-NAY-sko-mai]: Another verb meaning “to remember,” often used similarly but with slightly more emphasis on the process of being reminded or recalling something.

2. Μνήμη (mnēmē) [mnay-MAY]: A noun meaning “memory” or “remembrance,” often used to describe the faculty or result of remembering rather than the action itself.

3. Μνησικακέω (mnēsikakeō) [mnay-see-KA-kay-oh]: This term means “to bear a grudge” or “to hold a memory of ill will,” showing the negative aspect of memory in certain contexts.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Tense, Voice, Mood:

• Present Tense: μνημονεύω (I remember)

• Future Tense: μνημονεύσω (I will remember)

• Aorist Tense: ἐμνημόνευσα (I remembered)

• Perfect Tense: μεμνημόνευκα (I have remembered)

Person and Number:

• 1st Person Singular (Present): μνημονεύω

• 2nd Person Singular (Present): μνημονεύεις

• 3rd Person Singular (Present): μνημονεύει

• 1st Person Plural (Present): μνημονεύομεν

• 2nd Person Plural (Present): μνημονεύετε

• 3rd Person Plural (Present): μνημονεύουσιν

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

Studying Lexicon Insights

Lexicon entries for μνημονεύω emphasize its role in active recall and remembrance in both everyday and spiritual contexts. In the New Testament, μνημονεύω frequently encourages the audience to recall essential truths about Jesus’ ministry and teachings. Classical Greek writers also used the term to describe the act of commemorating events or people, particularly in the context of heroic deeds or divine interventions. Theologically, this verb holds significant weight, as it calls believers to remember and live out their faith based on past revelations.

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

Tracing Related Scriptures

1. Matthew 16:9 – “Do you not yet understand or remember [μνημονεύετε] the five loaves for the five thousand, and how many baskets you gathered?”

2. Luke 17:32 – “Remember [μνημονεύετε] Lot’s wife.”

3. John 15:20 – “Remember [μνημονεύετε] the word that I said to you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Author Name of Work Example Text

Homer Odyssey “And I shall remember [μνημονεύω] all the pains endured.”

Plato Phaedrus “Memory [μνημονεύω] is the key to true wisdom.”

Septuagint Exodus 13:3 “And Moses said to the people: Remember [μνημονεύω] this day.”

Noteworthy Summary

The word μνημονεύω (mnēmoneuō) plays a vital role in both biblical and classical Greek texts, signifying the importance of memory, remembrance, and recollection. In Scripture, it often reminds believers to recall the works and words of God, keeping them at the forefront of their spiritual practice. Its classical usage also emphasizes memory as a cornerstone of learning and honoring the past. Understanding this word opens up a greater appreciation for the act of remembering, not just as a mental activity but as a spiritual and cultural discipline.

Did You Know?

1. The English word “mnemonic” is derived from μνημονεύω, referring to techniques that aid memory.

2. In ancient Greece, memory was often seen as a divine gift, with Mnemosyne being the goddess of memory.

3. In Jewish tradition, remembrance is frequently linked to covenant faithfulness, making μνημονεύω a theologically rich term in both Testaments.