### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **miméomai**, represented by `{{G3401}}`, is defined as "to imitate" or **follow**. It is derived from a word for "mimic" and appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible. This word carries the specific instruction to model one's behavior after a particular example, whether good or bad.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G3401}}` is used to provide clear instructions on who or what to imitate. It is used to command believers to **follow** the faith of their leaders who have spoken the word of God to them [[Hebrews 13:7]]. In his letter to the Thessalonians, Paul uses the term twice, first stating that they know how they "ought to **follow** us" [[2 Thessalonians 3:7]], and then clarifying this was intentional, to "make ourselves an ensample unto you to **follow** us" [[2 Thessalonians 3:9]]. The term also carries a negative instruction, urging the "Beloved" not to **follow** that which is evil, but to **follow** that which is good [[3 John 1:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the concept of imitation and spiritual leadership:
* `{{G5179}}` **týpos** (ensample): This word defines the pattern or model to be imitated. Paul states his goal was to make himself an **ensample** for the believers to follow [[2 Thessalonians 3:9]].
* `{{G2233}}` **hēgéomai** (have the rule over): This term refers to the leaders or governors whose conduct is worthy of imitation. Believers are instructed to remember and follow the faith of those who **have the rule** over them [[Hebrews 13:7]].
* `{{G4102}}` **pístis** (faith): This is the specific quality that believers are called to imitate in their leaders. The instruction is to follow their **faith**, considering the outcome of their lives [[Hebrews 13:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3401}}` lies in its emphasis on tangible, observable discipleship.
* **The Importance of Examples:** The instruction to **follow** leaders establishes a principle of lived-out theology. Believers are not just given doctrines, but also human models, or an **ensample** `{{G5179}}`, whose **faith** `{{G4102}}` can be imitated ([[2 Thessalonians 3:9]], [[Hebrews 13:7]]).
* **Active Discernment:** The word is used to call for moral choice. Believers are explicitly commanded to **follow** what is good and not what is evil, linking right imitation to one's relationship with God, as "He that doeth good is of God" [[3 John 1:11]].
* **Chain of Discipleship:** By following the **faith** `{{G4102}}` of those who **have spoken** `{{G2980}}` the word of God, believers participate in a chain of discipleship. The command to **follow** leaders who provide a godly **ensample** `{{G5179}}` ensures the faithful transmission of behavior from one generation of believers to the next ([[Hebrews 13:7]], [[2 Thessalonians 3:9]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3401}}` **miméomai** is a direct and active command to imitate. It moves beyond simple agreement to active modeling of one's life after a given pattern. Whether it is following the **faith** `{{G4102}}` of godly leaders or refusing to **follow** evil, the word underscores the biblical principle that faith is demonstrated through observable action. It establishes the importance of having and being a worthy **ensample** `{{G5179}}` within the community of believers.
TRV