Brief Overview of περιμένω (Strong’s G4037: perimeno)

Strong’s G4037: A compound verb combining περί (around) and μένω (to remain/wait), meaning “to wait continuously, await expectantly.” Used specifically of the disciples awaiting the Holy Spirit’s coming, emphasizing patient, purposeful waiting for divine fulfillment of promises.

U- Unveiling the Word

Περιμένω represents intentional, expectant waiting. As a compound word, it combines the encompassing aspect of περί with the steadfast waiting of μένω, creating a picture of complete, purposeful anticipation. In the New Testament, it appears uniquely in Acts, describing the disciples’ waiting for the Holy Spirit’s coming. The word carries deep theological significance in showing the proper attitude toward divine promises: patient, faithful expectation. Early church writers used it to discuss both historical waiting for the Spirit and ongoing spiritual anticipation. Today, it teaches believers about purposeful waiting on God’s timing and promises.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: περιμένω, perimeno, [peh-ree-MEH-no]
• Detailed pronunciation: peh-ree-MEH-no (stress on third syllable)
• Part of Speech: Verb

Etymology:

• περί (peri-): prefix meaning “around, completely”
• μένω (meno): root verb meaning “to remain, wait”
• Combined meaning: to wait completely/thoroughly

D – Defining Meanings

• To wait expectantly
• To await continuously
• To remain in anticipation

For compound words: The prefix περί adds “completely” to μένω “to wait,” emphasizing thorough, encompassing waiting

Translation Options:

1. Wait expectantly – Emphasizes anticipation
2. Await – Captures patient endurance
3. Stay waiting – Reflects continuous action

E – Exploring Similar Words

• ἀναμένω [anameno, ah-nah-MEH-no] – to wait up for
• προσμένω [prosmeno, pros-MEH-no] – to wait beside
• ὑπομένω [hypomeno, hoo-po-MEH-no] – to endure

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Verbal Features:

• Tense: Present, Aorist
• Voice: Active
• Mood: Infinitive
• Person: All persons
• Number: Singular, Plural
• Aspect: Continuous or punctiliar

Examples: wait, waits, waited, waiting

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes expectant waiting. Thayer’s notes its connection to divine promises. LSJ provides examples of patient anticipation. Vine’s connects it to spiritual preparation. Strong’s emphasizes thoroughness of waiting. Moulton and Milligan document its use in personal letters.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:

“And being assembled together with them, He commanded them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to [wait] for the Promise of the Father.” (Acts 1:4)

Additional References:
None

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

Περιμένω powerfully illustrates the nature of Christian hope and expectation. Just as the disciples waited for the Spirit’s coming, we learn to wait expectantly for God’s promises. This promotes the good news of King Jesus by teaching us patient trust in His perfect timing and faithful fulfillment.

D – Did You Know?

1. Used in ancient letters about awaiting important news
2. Applied in military contexts for strategic waiting
3. Became significant in early Christian prayer practices

Strong’s G4037: Compound verb expressing complete, expectant waiting. Used specifically for awaiting divine promises, particularly the Holy Spirit’s coming. Emphasizes patient, purposeful anticipation of God’s faithfulness.

Part of speech: Verb

Tags: #Waiting #Promise #HolySpirit #Patience #BiblicalGreek #CompoundVerbs #Hope #Expectation #Trust #Faithfulness​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​