The Greek word ameléō, represented by G272, means to be careless of. Derived from Α (as a negative particle) and μέλω, it conveys a range of meanings including to neglect, make light of, or have no regard. It appears 7 times across 5 unique verses in the Bible, highlighting specific instances of disregard or negligence.
In scripture, G272 is used to describe both human and divine actions. In the parable of the wedding feast, guests make light of the king's invitation, going instead to their farms and merchandise Matthew 22:5. The word carries graver weight in Hebrews, where it asks how one can escape judgment if they neglect so great a salvation Hebrews 2:3. Similarly, Timothy is warned not to neglect the spiritual gift given to him 1 Timothy 4:14. The term is also used to describe God's response to Israel's unfaithfulness to the first covenant; because they did not continue in it, He regarded them not Hebrews 8:9. In contrast, the author of 2 Peter promises not to be negligent in reminding believers of the truth 2 Peter 1:12.
Several related words provide context for the act of neglecting:
- G4991 sōtēría (rescue or safety): This word for salvation is what one is in danger of neglecting. The question is posed, "How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation" Hebrews 2:3?
- G5486 chárisma (a (divine) gratuity... (free) gift): Believers are explicitly warned not to neglect this divine gift, which was given through prophecy and the laying on of hands 1 Timothy 4:14.
- G1242 diathḗkē (covenant, testament): God's act of having "no regard" G272 for the people was a direct consequence of their failure to continue in His covenant Hebrews 8:9.
- G1696 emménō (to stay in the same place, i.e. (figuratively) persevere): This word for continue describes Israel's failure. Because they "continued not" in the covenant, God regarded them not Hebrews 8:9.
The theological weight of G272 is significant and serves as a direct warning.
- The Consequence of Negligence: The use of G272 establishes a clear principle that neglecting God's provisions has severe consequences. This is most starkly stated in the question of how one can escape G1628 if they neglect the great salvation G4991 offered through the Lord Hebrews 2:3.
- The Stewardship of Divine Gifts: The command to "Neglect not the gift" 1 Timothy 4:14 frames spiritual endowments as a responsibility. A gift G5486, or divine gratuity, is not to be left dormant but requires active attention and use by the believer.
- Covenantal Faithfulness: The word illustrates the nature of covenant relationship. In Hebrews 8:9, God's act of "regarding them not" is presented as a direct result of the people's failure to continue G1696 in His covenant G1242, linking human faithfulness to the experience of God's regard under that specific contract.
In summary, G272 moves beyond simple carelessness to carry significant theological weight. It serves as a warning against spiritual apathy, whether in the form of making light of a divine call Matthew 22:5 or the more serious act of neglecting God's salvation Hebrews 2:3 and spiritual gifts 1 Timothy 4:14. The term underscores that a relationship with God requires active participation, and a failure to regard His provisions, such as the covenant, can have profound consequences.
TRV