### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **epilanthánomai**, represented by `{{G1950}}`, means to **lose out of mind** or, by implication, **to neglect**. It appears **9 times** across **8 unique verses** in the Bible. This term covers a range of meanings from a simple lapse in memory to a more significant failure to care for or remember something of importance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{G1950}}` describes both divine and human memory. God is presented as one who cannot forget, as he is not **unrighteous** `{{G94}}` to **forget** the work and labor of love shown by the saints [[Hebrews 6:10]]. Even a sparrow is not **forgotten** before God [[Luke 12:6]]. In contrast, humans are depicted as forgetful. The disciples had **forgotten** to take bread ([[Matthew 16:5]], [[Mark 8:14]]), and a man who beholds himself in a mirror "straightway **forgetteth** what manner of man he was" [[James 1:24]]. The word is also used as a command against neglect, such as to "be not **forgetful** to entertain strangers" [[Hebrews 13:2]] and not to **forget** to do good [[Hebrews 13:16]]. In a distinct use, Paul speaks of intentionally **forgetting** the things which are behind to press forward [[Philippians 3:13]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which `{{G1950}}` is used:
* `{{G2041}}` **érgon** (deed, doing, labour, work): This is directly connected in [[Hebrews 6:10]], where God is praised because he is not unrighteous to **forget** the **work** and labor of believers.
* `{{G2638}}` **katalambánō** (to take eagerly, i.e. seize, possess... apprehend, attain): In [[Philippians 3:13]], **forgetting** what is behind is contrasted with the effort to **apprehend** what is ahead, showing it as a necessary part of spiritual pursuit.
* `{{G5381}}` **philonexía** (hospitableness... entertain stranger, hospitality): Believers are explicitly commanded not to be **forgetful** `{{G1950}}` of **hospitality**, linking the act of forgetting directly to the neglect of this specific virtue [[Hebrews 13:2]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1950}}` is significant, highlighting key spiritual concepts.
* **Divine Faithfulness:** The word underscores God's perfect and just memory. He does not **forget** the deeds of His people, contrasting with the fallibility of human memory and character [[Hebrews 6:10]].
* **Forgetfulness as Neglect:** The term is frequently used in commands not to forget, framing forgetfulness as a moral failure to perform essential Christian duties like doing good, communicating, and showing hospitality ([[Hebrews 13:16]], [[Hebrews 13:2]]).
* **Intentional Forgetting for Spiritual Focus:** In a unique application, Paul reframes forgetting as a positive and deliberate spiritual discipline. By **forgetting** past things, a believer can focus entirely on reaching for the future goal in Christ [[Philippians 3:13]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1950}}` is a versatile word that moves beyond a simple definition of memory loss. It can signify a mundane lapse, a state of spiritual heedlessness, or a deliberate act of spiritual discipline. It powerfully contrasts the complete faithfulness of God, who never forgets His creation or His people's labor, with human frailty and the need for constant, active remembrance of our duties to God and one another.
TRV