### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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