middle voice of a derivative of μένω or perhaps of the base of μασσάομαι (through the idea of fixture in the mind or of mental grasp); to bear in mind, i.e. recollect; by implication, to reward or punish:--be mindful, remember, come (have) in remembrance. Compare μιμνήσκω.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **mnáomai**, represented by `{{G3415}}`, means to **bear in mind** or **recollect**. It appears **21 times** across **21 unique verses** in the Bible. The term carries the idea of a fixture in the mind or a mental grasp, and by implication, it can refer to the act of rewarding or punishing based on what is remembered.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G3415}}` is used to describe several forms of remembrance. It is used when the disciples **remembered** Jesus’s words after a significant event, such as when he cleansed the temple [[John 2:17]] or after his resurrection [[John 2:22]]. It is also used as a plea for divine favor, as when the thief on the cross asks Jesus, "**remember** me when thou comest into thy kingdom" [[Luke 23:42]]. The term also describes God's action, such as when the prayers and alms of Cornelius **are had in remembrance** in the sight of God [[Acts 10:31]], or when Great Babylon **came in remembrance** before God to receive judgment [[Revelation 16:19]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the concept of what is being remembered or brought to mind:
* `{{G4487}}` **rhēma** (an utterance): This term is frequently the object of remembrance. The apostles were to be mindful of the **words** spoken by the prophets [[2 Peter 3:2]], and Peter **remembered** the **word** of Jesus regarding his denial [[Matthew 26:75]].
* `{{G1242}}` **diathḗkē** (covenant): God's remembrance is directly tied to His promises. God's mercy is performed in order to **remember** his holy **covenant** [[Luke 1:72]].
* `{{G1656}}` **éleos** (mercy): This word is closely linked to God’s remembrance as a foundational aspect of His character. God helped Israel in **remembrance** of his **mercy** [[Luke 1:54]].
* `{{G266}}` **hamartía** (a sin): God's act of forgetting is a crucial part of His new covenant. He promises that their **sins** and iniquities He will **remember** no more [[Hebrews 10:17]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3415}}` is significant, highlighting key aspects of the relationship between God and humanity.
* **Covenant Fidelity:** God’s remembrance is an expression of His faithfulness to His promises. He acts to perform **mercy** `{{G1656}}` and to **remember** His holy **covenant** `{{G1242}}` with His people [[Luke 1:72]].
* **Divine Forgiveness:** The concept is powerfully used in the negative to express salvation. In the new covenant, God declares He will be **merciful** `{{G2436}}` and that He will **remember** their **sins** `{{G266}}` and **iniquities** `{{G458}}` no more [[Hebrews 8:12]]. This act of "not remembering" is central to grace.
* **Human Responsibility:** For believers, remembering is an act of faith and obedience. The disciples **remembered** Jesus's words and then **believed** `{{G4100}}` the scripture [[John 2:22]]. Paul **praises** `{{G1867}}` the Corinthians because they **remember** him and **keep** `{{G2722}}` the ordinances [[1 Corinthians 11:2]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3415}}` moves beyond simple recollection to become a word of profound action and consequence. It encompasses God's covenant loyalty and His provision of mercy, often expressed by His choice to remember His promises and forget the sins of His people. For humanity, to remember is to hold fast to the words of God and the apostles, forming a cornerstone of an active and obedient faith.
TRV