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Unveiling the Word

In biblical studies, understanding the original Greek words enhances our grasp of scripture, providing deeper insight into the text’s meaning and implications. The Greek word μέριμνα (merimna), translated as “care” or “anxiety,” is particularly significant because it addresses a universal human experience—worry. Its usage in the New Testament offers a window into early Christian teachings on handling life’s anxieties and concerns. Moreover, it reveals aspects of ancient Greek culture where worries about daily sustenance, familial duties, and social obligations were just as pressing as they are today. By studying this word, we gain a richer understanding of how biblical texts addressed these common human challenges.

Necessary Information

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Greek Word: μέριμνα, merimna [MEH-reem-nah].

Etymology: The word μέριμνα is derived from the verb μεριμνάω (merimnaō), which means “to be anxious” or “to care for.” The root word μέρος (meros), meaning “part” or “portion,” hints at the idea of something being divided or fragmented, which can metaphorically apply to a divided or distracted mind, symbolizing worry.

Part of Speech: Noun. As a noun, μέριμνα denotes a state of being or a condition—specifically, the condition of being anxious, troubled, or preoccupied with cares.

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Defining Meanings

1. Care, Anxiety, Worry: The primary meaning of μέριμνα is related to anxiety or worry, often used in contexts where concerns about material needs or future uncertainties are discussed. For example, in Matthew 13:22, it is used in the Parable of the Sower to describe how the “cares of this world” choke the word, rendering it unfruitful.
2. Concern, Solicitude: In a more neutral sense, μέριμνα can refer to genuine concern or care for someone or something. This usage implies a responsible attention to a matter, without the negative connotation of anxiety.

Exploring Similar Words

1. μεριμνάω (merimnaō) [meh-reem-NAH-oh]: This verb form means “to be anxious” or “to be concerned.” It is used to describe the action or state of being anxious, as seen in passages like Philippians 4:6, where believers are instructed not to be anxious about anything.
2. ἀγχώ (anchō) [AHNG-kho]: This word means “to choke” or “to strangle,” metaphorically describing the effect that anxiety or worry can have on a person, similar to how worries can “choke” the word in the Parable of the Sower.
3. φροντίς (phrontis) [FRON-tis]: Meaning “care” or “thought,” this word is used in classical Greek literature to denote deep thought or consideration, akin to mental preoccupation.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

As a noun, μέριμνα follows the first declension pattern in Greek. Here is an example of its morphological forms:

This table illustrates how μέριμνα is declined according to case and number, which is essential for understanding its grammatical role in different contexts.

Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Studying Lexicon Insights

Lexicons provide varied insights into the word μέριμνα. BDAG highlights its use in contexts of anxiety and worry, particularly concerning material needs or spiritual distractions. Thayer’s Lexicon elaborates on its implications for a divided mind, a state where one’s thoughts are scattered by various concerns. LSJ notes its broader classical usage in Greek literature, often referring to worries about social and political issues. Vine’s Expository Dictionary places emphasis on its negative connotations in a spiritual sense, cautioning against being overwhelmed by worldly cares. Strong’s Concordance links it closely with the idea of distraction or preoccupation. LEH discusses its Septuagint usage, where it often appears in contexts of concern for familial or communal wellbeing. Moulton and Milligan provide additional examples from papyri, showing its use in legal and personal documents to describe preoccupations or obligations.

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

Tracing Related Scriptures

1. Matthew 13:22: “The seed falling among the thorns refers to someone who hears the word, but the worries [μέριμνα] of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke the word, making it unfruitful.” Here, μέριμνα describes the anxiety that prevents spiritual growth.
2. Luke 21:34: “Be careful, or your hearts will be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness and the anxieties [μέριμνα] of life, and that day will close on you suddenly like a trap.” This verse warns against letting worldly anxieties distract from spiritual vigilance.
3. 1 Peter 5:7: “Cast all your anxiety [μέριμνα] on him because he cares for you.” This verse encourages believers to trust God with their worries, illustrating a theological resolution to anxiety.

Analyzing Classical Usage

Noteworthy Summary

The word μέριμνα is a profound term that captures the human experience of anxiety and concern. Its appearances in the New Testament provide crucial guidance on managing life’s worries, encouraging believers to trust in God rather than be consumed by worldly cares. Understanding its nuances enriches our appreciation of biblical teachings on peace and reliance on divine provision.

Did You Know?

1. The word μέριμνα appears six times in the New Testament, each time emphasizing the spiritual dangers of worldly anxiety.
2. In ancient Greek, μέριμνα was often used in philosophical texts to discuss the distractions of the mind and the importance of focus.
3. The root word μέρος, meaning “part,” reflects the fragmented nature of the anxious mind, divided and distracted by many concerns.