### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **epilēsmonḗ**, represented by `{{G1953}}`, is defined as negligence, or being **forgetful**. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible. The word is derived from ἐπιλανθάνομαι.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G1953}}` is found in [[James 1:25]]. Here, it describes a person who fails to act on what they have heard. The verse contrasts one who "looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein" with someone who is a "**forgetful** hearer." This individual is set in opposition to "a doer of the work," who is promised a blessing in his deed. The term **forgetful**, therefore, identifies a specific kind of spiritual failure: hearing without retaining and applying.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context of being **forgetful**:
* `{{G202}}` **akroatḗs** (a hearer (merely)): This term is directly linked with `{{G1953}}` to form the phrase "**forgetful** hearer" [[James 1:25]]. The concept is further defined as being "hearers of the word, and not doers" [[James 1:22]].
* `{{G4163}}` **poiētḗs** (a performer; --doer, poet): This is the direct counterpart to a hearer. Scripture emphasizes being "doers of the word" and not hearers only [[James 1:22]], and it is the "doers of the law" who shall be justified [[Romans 2:13]].
* `{{G3879}}` **parakýptō** (to bend beside, i.e. lean over (so as to peer within)): This describes the initial action of engaging with the law. One "looketh" into the perfect law [[James 1:25]], an action of intense focus also desired by angels [[1 Peter 1:12]]. Being **forgetful** is what happens after this peering, if it does not lead to action.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1953}}` centers on the nature of genuine faith.
* **Hearing vs. Doing:** The central theme is the critical distinction between merely hearing God's word and acting upon it. The "**forgetful** hearer" is contrasted with the "doer of the work" [[James 1:25]], and scripture warns against being "hearers only, deceiving your own selves" [[James 1:22]].
* **The Object of Memory:** The thing one must not be **forgetful** of is "the perfect law of liberty" [[James 1:25]]. This is also referred to as "the law of Christ" [[Galatians 6:2]] and "the law of the Spirit of life" [[Romans 8:2]]. Forgetfulness is a failure to hold fast to this transformative principle.
* **The Path to Blessing:** Overcoming forgetfulness is presented as a condition for divine blessing. It is the one who is not a **forgetful** hearer but a doer who "shall be blessed in his deed" [[James 1:25]]. Similarly, justification is for the "doers of the law," not the "hearers of the law" [[Romans 2:13]].
### Summary
In summary, **epilēsmonḗ** `{{G1953}}` is more than a simple mental lapse. In its single biblical use, it signifies a critical spiritual negligence. It defines the state of a person who hears the truth but fails to integrate it into their life, thereby becoming a "**forgetful** hearer" instead of a blessed "doer of the work." The word serves as a potent warning that true engagement with God's law demands active obedience, not passive reception.
TRV