G272

ἀμελέω (ameléō) is a Greek verb that means “to be negligent” or “to neglect.” It indicates a lack of care or attention to something, suggesting disregard or indifference towards a responsibility or duty.

Possible Meanings:

1. Neglect: To fail to give adequate attention or care to something or someone.
2. Be Negligent: To act without due concern or to disregard important matters.

Detailed Overview with Concordances

1. BDAG (A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament and Other Early Christian Literature):

• BDAG defines ἀμελέω as “to be negligent” or “to neglect.” It provides examples of its use in biblical contexts where it conveys a sense of failure to attend to one’s duties or responsibilities. BDAG emphasizes its application in moral or ethical discussions, where neglecting responsibilities can have significant consequences.

2. LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones Greek-English Lexicon):

• LSJ describes ἀμελέω as “to neglect” or “to be careless.” It notes that the term can be used in both classical and biblical Greek to indicate a lack of proper attention or care. The lexicon highlights the term’s use in various contexts where neglect leads to adverse outcomes.

3. Thayer’s Greek Lexicon:

• Thayer defines ἀμελέω as “to neglect” or “to be negligent.” Thayer explains that the term is used in the New Testament to describe a failure to perform duties or obligations, reflecting a lack of concern or diligence. The lexicon provides examples from the New Testament where the term is used to denote negligence in spiritual or moral matters.

4. Strong’s Concordance:

• Strong’s Concordance lists ἀμελέω as “to neglect.” It notes that the term is used in biblical passages to indicate a failure to pay attention or take care of responsibilities. The concordance highlights its occurrence in contexts where neglect leads to negative consequences.

Summary:
ἀμελέω means “to neglect” or “to be negligent,” reflecting a lack of care or attention to responsibilities. According to BDAG, LSJ, Thayer’s Lexicon, and Strong’s Concordance, the term is used in both classical and biblical Greek to describe failures in duties or responsibilities, often with significant implications. It emphasizes the importance of diligence and concern in various contexts.