G3417

Unveiling the Word

In Biblical studies, understanding Greek words like μνεία (mneía) is essential for interpreting the New Testament accurately. Found in Romans 1:9, μνεία is often translated as “remembrance” or “mention,” particularly in the context of prayer. This word is significant in understanding how early Christians thought about prayer, memory, and intercession. Additionally, μνεία offers insight into ancient Greek culture, where concepts of memory and commemoration were highly valued, both in religious and social contexts.

Necessary Information

Greek Word: μνεία (mneía)

Transliteration: mneía

Pronunciation: /mnay-EE-ah/

Etymology: The word μνεία derives from the verb μιμνῄσκω (mimnēskō), meaning “to remember” or “to recall.” This root emphasizes the importance of keeping someone or something in mind, particularly in prayers or formal contexts of remembrance. In ancient Greek culture, remembrance was often linked with honoring someone’s legacy or expressing gratitude.

Part of Speech: Noun, Feminine

Μνεία is a feminine noun in Greek, typically used in contexts referring to acts of remembrance, whether in prayer or casual conversation. It appears in various declensions depending on its syntactical role in a sentence.

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

Defining Meanings

1. Remembrance or Mention in Prayer: The most common New Testament usage of μνεία is in reference to remembering someone in prayer. For example, in Romans 1:9, Paul expresses how he constantly remembers the Roman Christians in his prayers.

2. Commemoration: In broader Greek contexts, μνεία can also mean commemoration or mention in a formal sense, such as remembering someone in a speech or an inscription.

3. Honor or Tribute: Another usage implies an act of honoring someone through remembrance, often highlighting their achievements or presence in the community.

Exploring Similar Words

1. Μνημόσυνον (mnēmosynon) [mnay-MOS-yoo-non]: This word refers to a memorial or a formal act of remembrance. While μνεία is often personal and private (such as in prayer), μνημόσυνον tends to be more public and formal, often related to commemorative offerings or monuments.

2. Μνῆμα (mnēma) [mnay-mah]: Refers to a tomb or grave, symbolizing a place of remembrance for the deceased. This word highlights the physical aspect of remembering, whereas μνεία focuses on the act of remembrance itself.

3. Μνημονεύω (mnēmoneuō) [mnay-mo-NYOO-oh]: This verb means “to remember” or “to keep in mind.” It shares the same root as μνεία but emphasizes the act of recalling something rather than simply mentioning or commemorating it.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Case, Number, Gender:

Μνεία is a singular, feminine noun. It typically appears in the nominative or accusative case depending on its grammatical role, such as being the subject or object of remembrance. For example, in Romans 1:9, μνεία appears in the accusative case, as Paul makes mention of the Roman believers in his prayers.

Declension:

Μνεία follows the first declension for feminine nouns in Greek. Below is a basic declension table for this noun:

Case Singular

Nominative μνεία

Genitive μνείας

Dative μνείᾳ

Accusative μνείαν

For more information on Greek declensions, click here for a beginner’s guide to reading Greek.

Studying Lexicon Insights

Lexical sources consistently highlight that μνεία relates to acts of remembering, especially in prayer. BDAG and Thayer’s point out that the word appears frequently in Paul’s epistles, emphasizing his constant prayers for fellow Christians. In a broader Greek context, μνεία is often linked to the social and religious practice of remembrance, where honoring the memory of individuals—especially in public or ceremonial acts—was a valued tradition. Theological implications point toward the importance of intercessory prayer and community support through remembrance, which was a core practice in early Christian life.

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

Tracing Related Scriptures

1. Romans 1:9 – “For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of his Son, that without ceasing I make mention [μνείαν] of you always in my prayers.”

2. Philippians 1:3 – “I thank my God upon every remembrance [μνείᾳ] of you.”

3. Ephesians 1:16 – “I cease not to give thanks for you, making mention [μνείαν] of you in my prayers.”

Analyzing Classical Usage

In classical Greek literature and the Septuagint, μνεία carries the meaning of mention or remembrance, particularly in formal or ceremonial contexts.

Author Name of Work Example Text

Plato Phaedrus “We shall make mention [μνείαν] of great men who are remembered.”

Herodotus Histories “The remembrance [μνεία] of their deeds will be eternal.”

Septuagint Psalm 77:3 “I remembered [μνεία] God, and was troubled.”

Noteworthy Summary

Μνεία (mneía) is a significant Greek word found in the New Testament, typically denoting an act of remembrance or mention in prayer. It is commonly used by Paul in his epistles to express his continual prayers for fellow believers. The word has roots in ancient Greek culture, where remembrance, whether in personal prayer or formal commemoration, was a vital part of both religious and social life. Understanding μνεία sheds light on early Christian practices of intercession, community support, and the value of keeping others in mind through prayer.

Did You Know?

1. The word μνεία shares a root with the English word “mnemonic,” which refers to tools for remembering information.

2. Μνεία appears multiple times in Paul’s epistles, highlighting his deep commitment to prayer and intercession for others.

3. In ancient Greek culture, remembrance was often a way of honoring the deceased or recognizing the contributions of important individuals.