Pronunciation Guide: ah-MER-im-nos

Basic Definition

Strong’s G275: ἀμέριμνος (amerimnos) describes a state of being free from anxiety, worry, or care. This compound word literally means “not anxious” or “without care.” It represents a condition of mental peace and tranquility, particularly in the context of divine protection and provision.

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Etymology and Morphology

• Part of Speech: Adjective
• Compound word from ἀ- (negative prefix) + μέριμνα (care, anxiety)
• Used primarily in teaching passages and narrative sections
• Classical Greek origin
• Found in both secular and religious contexts

ἀμέριμνος Morphology:

• ἀμέριμνος (nominative singular masculine/feminine) – free from anxiety
• ἀμέριμνον (accusative singular masculine/feminine) – free from anxiety
• ἀμέριμνοι (nominative plural masculine/feminine) – free from anxiety
• ἀμερίμνους (accusative plural masculine/feminine) – free from anxiety

Origin & History

The term ἀμέριμνος appears in classical Greek literature as early as the 5th century BCE. Xenophon used it in his “Memorabilia” to describe the ideal state of a philosopher’s mind – one unburdened by worldly concerns. The Stoic philosophers, particularly Epictetus, employed the term to describe the tranquil state achieved through philosophical detachment.

In the Hellenistic period, the word took on additional spiritual connotations. While maintaining its basic meaning of freedom from anxiety, it began to be associated with divine protection and providence, particularly in religious texts and philosophical treatises dealing with the relationship between humans and deity.

Expanded Definitions & Translation Options

• Freedom from anxiety or worry
• State of being carefree through divine assurance
• Mental tranquility based on trust
• Peaceful condition of mind

ἀμέριμνος Translation Options:

• “Free from anxiety” – Emphasizes the complete removal of worry
• “Without care” – Highlights the absence of burden
• “Untroubled” – Focuses on the resulting state of peace
• “Secure” – Emphasizes the basis for freedom from worry in divine protection

Biblical Usage

The term ἀμέριμνος appears notably in Matthew 28:14, where the chief priests assure the guards they will be made “free from care” regarding potential consequences of their false report about the Messiah’s resurrection. The word also appears in 1 Corinthians 7:32, where Paul discusses being “free from concern” in relation to serving the Lord.

While its direct appearances are limited, the concept it represents is woven throughout Scripture, particularly in passages about trusting in divine provision and protection. Its usage in both contexts demonstrates the word’s versatility in describing both worldly security and spiritual peace.

• “And if this comes to the governor’s ears, we will persuade him and make you ἀμέριμνος free from care” Matthew 28:14
• “But I want you to be ἀμέριμνος free from concern” 1 Corinthians 7:32

Cultural Insights

In ancient Jewish culture, the concept of being “free from care” was deeply connected to trust in יהוה (Yahweh)’s covenant faithfulness. The Hebrew concept of bitachon (בִּטָּחוֹן), or complete trust in God, closely parallels the meaning of ἀμέριμνος. This cultural understanding would have resonated deeply with the early Jewish believers in Yeshua (Jesus), who saw their freedom from anxiety as a direct result of their trust in the Messiah’s finished work.

The Roman world of the first century was characterized by significant social, political, and economic instability. In this context, the promise of being ἀμέριμνος would have held particular appeal, especially when grounded in divine rather than human assurance.

Theological Significance

The concept of ἀμέριμνος reveals a profound theological truth about God’s character and His desire for His people. It demonstrates that He not only provides protection but wants His children to live in the conscious experience of security that comes from trusting Him. This connects directly to Yeshua’s teaching in Matthew 6:25-34 about not being anxious.

This word also illuminates the relationship between divine sovereignty and human responsibility. While God provides the basis for being ἀμέριμνος, we are called to actively trust in His provision and protection, choosing to live in the reality of His care rather than in anxiety about earthly circumstances.

Personal Application

In our anxiety-ridden world, understanding ἀμέριμνος offers profound practical implications. It reminds us that freedom from worry isn’t just about positive thinking or stress management techniques, but about resting in the character and promises of God. When we truly grasp that we are under His care, we can experience genuine freedom from anxiety.

This word challenges us to examine the source of our security. Are we trying to manufacture peace through earthly means, or are we finding it in our relationship with the living God? The state of being ἀμέριμνος is available to every believer who chooses to trust in God’s faithful care.

Related Words

• μέριμνα (merimna) – anxiety, care, worry – Shows the root from which ἀμέριμνος is derived See G3308
• ἀταράχως (atarachos) – undisturbed, tranquil – Similar concept of peace but focuses more on external circumstances See G818
• γαλήνη (galēnē) – calm, especially of the sea – Used metaphorically for peace of mind See G1055
• εἰρήνη (eirēnē) – peace – Broader term for peace that includes freedom from anxiety See G1515

Did you Know?

• The concept of ἀμέριμνος was so valued in ancient Greek culture that philosophical schools made achieving this state a primary goal of their teachings, though they sought it through human wisdom rather than divine trust.
• Modern Greek still uses the word αμέριμνος to describe someone who is carefree or unburdened, showing the enduring relevance of this concept across millennia.
• The negative prefix ἀ- in ἀμέριμνος is the same prefix used in many English words like “atheist” or “amoral,” helping us understand how the word literally means “without anxiety.”

Remember This

ἀμέριμνος represents not just the absence of worry, but the presence of divine peace – a state of being that flows from trusting in God’s sovereign care and faithful provision.