### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **mémphomai**, represented by `{{G3201}}`, means **to blame** or **find fault**. It appears **3 times** in **3 unique verses**, making each occurrence significant. This term is used to describe the act of lodging a complaint or identifying a defect, whether in human tradition, divine action, or covenantal agreements.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G3201}}` is used to frame critical turning points and theological questions. In [[Hebrews 8:8]], God Himself is the one **finding fault** with the first covenant, providing the reason for establishing a new one with Israel and Judah. [[Mark 7:2]] presents a different context, where some **found fault** with Jesus' disciples for a ceremonial infraction: eating bread with defiled, unwashed hands. Lastly, [[Romans 9:19]] employs the term in a challenging rhetorical question about divine sovereignty: "Why doth he yet **find fault**? For who hath resisted his will?"
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the act of finding fault:
* `{{G2046}}` **eréō** (to utter, i.e. speak or say): This word introduces the question in [[Romans 9:19]], where one might **say** or question why God finds fault `{{G3201}}`.
* `{{G436}}` **anthístēmi** (to stand against, i.e. oppose): Used in the same verse, it questions who can **resist** God's will, directly linking the act of finding fault `{{G3201}}` to divine power and authority [[Romans 9:19]].
* `{{G1013}}` **boúlēma** (a resolve:--purpose, will): This term is the object of resistance in [[Romans 9:19]]. The argument hinges on the idea that if no one can resist God's **will**, it seems contradictory for Him to then find fault `{{G3201}}`.
* `{{G1492}}` **eídō** (properly, to see): In [[Mark 7:2]], the act of finding fault `{{G3201}}` is a direct result of observation; the narrative states that when they **saw** the disciples eating with unwashed hands, they found fault.
* `{{G2839}}` **koinós** (common, i.e. ... ceremonially) profane: This specifies the reason for the fault-finding in [[Mark 7:2]]. The disciples' hands were considered **defiled** `{{G2839}}`, which was the basis of the complaint.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3201}}` is significant in its few appearances.
* **Basis for a New Covenant:** The use of `{{G3201}}` in [[Hebrews 8:8]] is foundational to understanding the New Covenant. It is not human dissatisfaction but God's own act of "finding fault" with the old system that necessitates and validates the new promise He makes.
* **Human versus Divine Judgment:** The contrast between its use in Mark and Hebrews is stark. In [[Mark 7:2]], finding fault is tied to human traditions and ceremonial purity. In [[Hebrews 8:8]], it is a divine verdict on the inadequacy of an entire covenant, highlighting the difference between superficial and substantive judgment.
* **Divine Sovereignty and Justice:** [[Romans 9:19]] uses `{{G3201}}` to explore the tension between God's absolute sovereignty and human responsibility. The question "Why doth he yet find fault?" is a profound theological query that challenges believers to reconcile God's unchallenged will `{{G1013}}` with his role as a righteous judge who holds humanity accountable.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3201}}` is a focused term for expressing blame or identifying defects. Though used only three times, it appears in pivotal passages. It is used to describe the ceremonial judgments of men [[Mark 7:2]], to frame a deep theological question about divine justice [[Romans 9:19]], and to articulate God's own reason for superseding the first covenant [[Hebrews 8:8]]. Each instance demonstrates that the act of "finding fault" can range from a minor grievance to a declaration of cosmic significance.
TRV