Understanding ἀνανεόω (ananeoo) Strong’s G365: The Divine Process of Spiritual Renewal That Transforms the Mind

Pronunciation Guide: ah-nah-neh-OH-oh

Basic Definition

Strong’s G365: ἀνανεόω (ananeoo) describes the supernatural process of being made new again, specifically referring to spiritual renewal and restoration. It carries the sense of a continuous action of being made fresh or young again, particularly in the context of the mind and inner being. This renewal is not merely superficial but represents a fundamental transformation of one’s thinking and perspective through the work of the Holy Spirit.

Etymology and Morphology

• Compound word from ἀνά (ana, “up, again”) + νέος (neos, “new, young”)
• Verb (present passive/middle infinitive)
• Used primarily in teaching passages
• Occurs in contexts of spiritual transformation
• Found in both classical and Koine Greek literature

ἀνανεόω Morphology:

• ἀνανεοῦσθαι (present passive/middle infinitive) – to be renewed
• ἀνανεούμενον (present passive/middle participle) – being renewed
• ἀνανεοῦται (present passive/middle indicative) – is being renewed
• ἀνανεούμενοι (present passive/middle participle plural) – being renewed (plural)

Origin & History

The concept of renewal expressed in ἀνανεόω has deep roots in classical Greek literature, where it was used to describe the process of making something new again or restoring it to its original condition. Plato employed this term in his “Republic” (Book VI) when discussing the renewal of knowledge and understanding.

In the Septuagint, while the exact form ἀνανεόω is rare, related words from the same root family appear in contexts of covenant renewal and spiritual restoration. The concept finds particular expression in passages like Lamentations 5:21, where the prophet pleads for divine renewal.

The early church fathers, particularly Clement of Alexandria in his “Stromata,” used ἀνανεόω to describe the transformative work of the Holy Spirit in believers’ lives, emphasizing its connection to baptism and ongoing sanctification.

Expanded Definitions & Translation Options

• Complete spiritual renovation of the mind
• Continuous process of being made new again
• Restoration to original created purpose
• Active transformation through divine power

ἀνανεόω Translation Options:

• “Be renewed” – Emphasizes the passive nature of receiving divine renewal
• “Make new again” – Highlights the restoration aspect
• “Be made fresh” – Captures the ongoing nature of renewal
• “Be transformed anew” – Reflects the complete nature of the change
• “Be spiritually renovated” – Emphasizes the thoroughness of renewal

Biblical Usage

The term ἀνανεόω appears most prominently in Ephesians 4:23, where it forms part of Paul’s instruction about putting off the old self and putting on the new. This usage is significant because it occurs in the passive voice, indicating that this renewal is something we receive rather than achieve through our own efforts.

The concept, while using different Greek words, connects thematically to passages about renewal throughout Scripture, particularly in texts about transformation and sanctification. This renewal is presented as an ongoing process rather than a one-time event, emphasizing the progressive nature of spiritual transformation.

• “And be renewed [ἀνανεοῦσθαι] in the spirit of your mind” Ephesians 4:23

Cultural Insights

In the ancient Mediterranean world, the concept of renewal was often associated with religious and philosophical ideas about purification and restoration. The Jewish mikvah ritual of ceremonial washing provides an important cultural backdrop for understanding ἀνανεόω. Just as individuals would immerse themselves in living water for ritual purification, the spiritual renewal described by ἀνανεόω represents a complete immersion in divine truth that transforms the mind.

The word’s usage in Ephesians occurs within the context of Roman Ephesus, where the cult of Artemis promoted various forms of religious “renewal” through mystical practices. Paul’s use of ἀνανεόω presents a stark contrast, emphasizing renewal through the truth of the Messiah rather than pagan rituals.

Theological Significance

The use of ἀνανεόω in Ephesians 4:23 presents renewal as a divine work that transforms believers from within. This renewal begins with the mind but affects the entire person, reflecting the Hebrew concept of wholistic transformation. It’s significant that this renewal is presented in the passive voice, indicating God’s initiative and our receptivity in the process.

This renewal process aligns with the prophetic promise of a new heart and new spirit in Ezekiel 36:26. The fact that ἀνανεόω appears in the present tense suggests this renewal is not a one-time event but an ongoing transformation, reflecting the progressive nature of sanctification through the Holy Spirit’s work.

Personal Application

This word carries profound implications for our daily walk with God. Just as a computer needs regular updates to function optimally, our minds require constant renewal through the Word of God and the Holy Spirit’s work. This renewal isn’t merely about gaining new information but about having our entire thinking process transformed to align with God’s truth.

Consider establishing a daily practice of mind renewal through Scripture meditation, prayer, and conscious choice to align thoughts with biblical truth. This renewal process becomes particularly powerful when we recognize it as a collaborative work – we position ourselves to receive while God does the transforming.

Related Words

• νέος (neos) – new in time, young – emphasizes temporal newness rather than qualitative renewal See G3501
• καινός (kainos) – new in quality, fresh – focuses on qualitative newness See G2537
• ἀνακαινόω (anakainoo) – to make new, renovate – emphasizes complete renovation See G341
• μεταμορφόω (metamorphoo) – to transform – describes visible change See G3339

Did you Know?

• The prefix ἀνα- in ἀνανεόω can carry the sense of “up” or “again,” suggesting not just renewal but elevation to a higher state – similar to how a software upgrade not only refreshes but enhances functionality.
• In modern Greek, derivatives of this word family are still used in contexts of renovation and renewal, particularly in architectural and urban development contexts, maintaining the sense of comprehensive restoration.
• The passive voice used in Ephesians 4:23 is what Greek grammarians call the “divine passive,” implying God as the active agent of renewal while we remain receptive participants in the process.

Remember This

ἀνανεόω represents the divine upgrade of our mental and spiritual operating system – a continuous process where God renews our minds to transform our lives.