Brief Overview of μωμάομαι (Strong’s G3469: mōmaomai)

Unveiling the Word

In biblical studies, understanding the original Greek words adds depth to scripture interpretation and reveals layers of meaning often missed in translation. The word μωμάομαι (mōmaomai), found in 2 Corinthians 6:3, is particularly significant in its New Testament context. This word conveys the idea of “blaming” or “finding fault,” and is tied to themes of reputation and integrity. In the context of Paul’s ministry, mōmaomai is used to emphasize the importance of not discrediting the ministry by one’s actions. It sheds light on the personal and communal conduct expected of Christians, particularly leaders in the early church, and also helps us better understand ancient Greek cultural concerns about honor and shame.

Necessary Information

Greek Word: μωμάομαι (mōmaomai), pronounced mo-MAH-oh-my.

Etymology: The word mōmaomai comes from the root mōmos (μῶμος), meaning “blame” or “fault.” This root often referred to dishonor or reproach, indicating a blemish on someone’s reputation.

Part of Speech: Verb. It is a middle voice verb, often used in contexts where someone is blamed, criticized, or finds fault with another. It conveys the act of censuring or speaking negatively about someone.

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

Defining Meanings

1. To Blame or Find Fault: The primary meaning of mōmaomai is to lay blame or reproach on someone, suggesting a moral or social criticism. In its New Testament usage, it typically conveys the idea of avoiding behavior that would bring blame or discredit to the Christian ministry.

2. To Discredit or Slander: In some contexts, mōmaomai can extend to the idea of slandering or tarnishing someone’s reputation through accusations or reproach.

3. To Disapprove or Criticize: Another layer of meaning involves the act of disapproving or expressing discontent with someone’s actions or character, often in a public or communal setting.

Exploring Similar Words

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1. κατηγορέω (katēgoreō) [pronunciation: kah-teh-go-REH-oh]: This word means “to accuse” or “to charge” with wrongdoing, often in a legal context. Unlike mōmaomai, which can refer to general fault-finding, katēgoreō implies a formal accusation or public charge.

2. καταλαλέω (katalaleō) [pronunciation: kah-tah-lah-LEH-oh]: Meaning “to speak against” or “to slander,” this word overlaps with mōmaomai in the sense of damaging someone’s reputation. However, katalaleō focuses more on malicious gossip, whereas mōmaomai focuses on discredit or fault.

3. διαβάλλω (diaballō) [pronunciation: dee-ah-BAH-loh]: This word means “to accuse” or “to bring charges” and is related to false accusations or misrepresentations. Like mōmaomai, it touches on the theme of blame, but it often has a more hostile connotation.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Tense, Voice, Mood:

• Mōmaomai is used in the middle voice, which indicates the subject is performing the action for themselves or in relation to themselves. This middle voice can imply that the subject is either avoiding blame or reflecting on how their actions are viewed. In 2 Corinthians 6:3, it is used in the present middle indicative form, showing continuous action and self-involvement.

Person and Number:

• In 2 Corinthians 6:3, the verb is in the first person plural (we), implying collective responsibility within the Christian community to avoid blame. This emphasizes the shared effort of believers to maintain integrity.

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Studying Lexicon Insights

Lexicon studies reveal that mōmaomai has a strong ethical and social connotation in Greek literature and the New Testament. In classical Greek, it was often used to speak of dishonoring or shaming someone. In the New Testament, it is particularly used in moral contexts, where one’s actions could bring discredit to the faith or the ministry. Paul’s use of mōmaomai in 2 Corinthians 6:3 emphasizes the high standards of conduct expected from Christian leaders, particularly in how their behavior reflects on the message of the gospel.

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

Tracing Related Scriptures

1. 2 Corinthians 6:3 – “We give no offense in anything, that our ministry may not be blamed [μωμώμεθα].”

2. James 3:2 – Though mōmaomai itself does not appear here, the concept of stumbling or causing offense is related, emphasizing the importance of controlling one’s actions.

Analyzing Classical Usage

Author Name of Work Greek Usage in Text

Plato Republic “He was blamed [μωμᾶται] for his harsh words.”

Herodotus Histories “The general was reproached [μωμᾶσθαι] for his failed campaign.”

Septuagint Psalm 69:9 “The reproaches [μώμῳ] of those who reproached you have fallen on me.”

Noteworthy Summary

The Greek word mōmaomai (G3469) encapsulates the idea of blame, reproach, and discredit, particularly in a social and moral context. In 2 Corinthians 6:3, Paul uses this word to instruct the early Christian leaders to act in such a way that no blame or fault can be attached to their ministry. This word, deeply rooted in the concepts of honor and shame in ancient Greek culture, stresses the importance of maintaining integrity in the Christian witness.

Did You Know?

1. In classical Greek, mōmaomai was often used in political and military contexts to describe public reproach or censure.

2. The middle voice of mōmaomai in 2 Corinthians 6:3 suggests that Christian leaders were actively involved in ensuring their behavior did not cause reproach.

3. The concept of reproach or blame is closely tied to the ancient Greek cultural value of honor, where reputation and public perception were of utmost importance.