The Greek word eklanthánomai, represented by G1585, means to be utterly oblivious of, or to forget. It is a rare term, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible. Its definition is derived from the middle voice of ἐκ and λανθάνω, indicating a state of complete forgetfulness.
The sole use of G1585 is in Hebrews 12:5, where believers are admonished for having forgotten a crucial exhortation G3874. This exhortation, which speaketh G1256 to them as children G5207, is a direct command from the Lord G2962 not to despise His chastening G3809 or faint G1590 when being rebuked. The act of forgetting, in this context, is a failure to recall God's fatherly purpose behind His discipline.
Several related words from its single context illuminate the meaning of G1585:
- G3874 paráklēsis (exhortation): This is the specific thing that has been forgotten. It is defined as an "imploration, hortation, solace," highlighting the encouraging and instructive nature of God's word Hebrews 12:5.
- G3809 paideía (chastening): This is the subject of the forgotten exhortation. It signifies "tutorage, i.e. education or training; by implication, disciplinary correction," which is presented as a part of a believer's nurture Hebrews 12:5.
- G1590 eklýō (faint): This is a potential consequence of forgetting the exhortation. It means "to relax (literally or figuratively)," and believers are warned against this response to God's rebuke Hebrews 12:5.
The theological weight of G1585 is concentrated in its specific warning against spiritual neglect.
- The Danger of Neglecting God's Word: To forget G1585 is presented not as a simple memory lapse, but as a critical spiritual failure to hold onto the divine exhortation G3874 that provides comfort and guidance Hebrews 12:5.
- Discipline as a Mark of Sonship: The forgotten message is that the Lord's G2962 chastening G3809 is evidence of being treated as a son G5207. Forgetting this truth leads one to misunderstand God's corrective actions (Hebrews 12:5, Hebrews 12:7).
- Remembrance as a Foundation for Endurance: The context links forgetting with the danger of fainting under trial. The exhortation not to faint G1590 when rebuked G1651 implies that remembering God's purpose is essential for spiritual perseverance Hebrews 12:5.
In summary, eklanthánomai G1585, while appearing only once, serves as a potent warning. Its use in Hebrews 12:5 illustrates that to forget God's exhortation is to lose sight of the fatherly nature of His discipline. This act of forgetting can lead believers to faint under correction rather than embracing it as the nurture G3809 of the Lord G2962. The word underscores the vital importance of actively remembering God's truth to maintain endurance and a proper understanding of one's relationship with Him as a son G5207.
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