from a derivative of μνήμη; to exercise memory, i.e. recollect; by implication, to punish; also to rehearse:--make mention; be mindful, remember.
Transliteration:mnēmoneúō
Pronunciation:mnay-mon-yoo'-o
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb μνημονεύω (mnēmoneúō), Strong's `{{G3421}}`, originates from a derivative of μνήμη (mnēmē), meaning "memory." Its core meaning revolves around the exercise of memory, encompassing more than simple cognitive recall. The semantic range of μνημονεύω includes:
1. **To recollect or remember:** The most direct meaning, implying the act of bringing something back to mind.
2. **To be mindful or considerate:** This extends beyond mere recall to an active state of paying attention to, or taking into account, a person, event, or command. It often carries an ethical or volitional dimension, suggesting a conscious decision to keep something in mind.
3. **To make mention or rehearse:** This denotes an outward expression of remembrance, such as speaking about someone or something, recounting past events, or referring to a particular truth. This can occur in prayer, teaching, or testimony.
4. **By implication, to punish or act upon remembrance:** Particularly when God is the subject, μνημονεύω can signify His active taking account of deeds, often leading to a consequential act of judgment or blessing. This is not a recovery from forgetfulness, but a deliberate act of divine reckoning.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
μνημονεύω appears numerous times in the New Testament, revealing its diverse applications.
* **Active Recall and Heeding:** The verb frequently functions as an imperative for believers to recall and act upon past truths or warnings. For instance, Jesus' admonition in [[Luke 17:32]], "Remember Lot's wife," serves as a stark warning against looking back to a life left behind. Similarly, Paul urges the Ephesians to "remember that formerly you, the Gentiles in the flesh..." ([[Ephesians 2:11]]), emphasizing their former spiritual alienation to highlight the grace of their present inclusion in Christ. In [[Hebrews 13:7]], believers are exhorted to "Remember your leaders, those who spoke the word of God to you," implying not just a mental recall of their existence, but a careful consideration of their teaching and example for emulation.
* **Making Mention in Prayer and Testimony:** Paul often assures his readers that he "remembers" them in his prayers, signifying a consistent, intentional intercession before God ([[Romans 1:9]], [[Ephesians 1:16]], [[1 Thessalonians 1:2]], [[Philemon 1:4]]). This highlights the active and personal nature of prayerful remembrance. In [[1 Thessalonians 1:3]], Paul "remembers without ceasing" the Thessalonians' work of faith, labor of love, and steadfastness of hope, using the verb to commend their enduring Christian character.
* **Divine Remembrance and Consequence:** A crucial theological nuance emerges when God is the subject. In [[Revelation 16:19]], it is declared that "great Babylon was remembered before God, to give her the cup of the wine of the fierceness of His wrath." Here, God's "remembrance" is not a sudden recollection but an active taking account of Babylon's wickedness, leading to divine judgment. Conversely, in [[Acts 10:31]], Cornelius's prayers and alms are said to have been "remembered before God," leading to divine favor and intervention. This demonstrates that God's remembrance is always efficacious, leading to either blessing or judgment based on the object of His recall.
### Related Words & Concepts
μνημονεύω is part of a rich semantic field related to memory, all stemming from the root μνη- (mnē-).
* μνήμη (mnēmē): The noun for "memory" itself.
* μνημεῖον (mnēmeion) `{{G3419}}`: A "memorial" or "tomb," a place designed for remembrance.
* μνῆσις (mnēsis) `{{G3420}}`: The act of "remembering" or "remembrance."
* μιμνῄσκω (mimnēskō) `{{G3403}}`: A related verb meaning "to remind" or "to remember." While often synonymous, μνημονεύω tends to emphasize a more deliberate, active, and sustained act of remembering.
* ἀναμιμνῄσκω (anamimnēskō) `{{G363}}`: "To recall to mind," "to remind."
* ἐπιλανθάνομαι (epilanthánomai) `{{G2033}}`: The direct antonym, "to forget." The biblical call to μνημονεύω often stands in direct opposition to the danger of ἐπιλανθάνομαι, underscoring the spiritual peril of forgetfulness.
The concept of "remembrance" in the Bible is deeply intertwined with covenant, faithfulness, and divine action. God's "remembering" His covenant (e.g., [[Luke 1:72]] uses μιμνῄσκω) signifies His unwavering fidelity to His promises. Human "remembrance" of God's works, commands, and grace is an act of worship, obedience, and a safeguard against spiritual apathy.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of μνημονεύω is profound, touching upon God's character and humanity's spiritual responsibility.
1. **Divine Sovereignty and Justice:** When God "remembers," it is not an indication of prior forgetfulness, but rather a declaration of His unwavering attention to the affairs of humanity, His covenant promises, and the demands of justice. His remembrance of sin leads to righteous judgment ([[Revelation 16:19]]), while His remembrance of righteous acts or prayers leads to divine favor and blessing ([[Acts 10:31]]). This highlights God's active governance and His perfect knowledge.
2. **Human Spiritual Discipline and Obedience:** For believers, "remembering" is a vital spiritual discipline. It is a call to:
* **Grateful Recall:** To actively recall God's saving acts, the person and work of Christ, and the foundational truths of the gospel ([[Ephesians 2:11-12]]). This fosters gratitude, strengthens faith, and provides a basis for enduring hope.
* **Prudent Warning:** To remember past judgments or failures, whether personal or historical, to avoid similar pitfalls ([[Luke 17:32]]). This promotes wisdom and humility.
* **Faithful Intercession:** To remember fellow believers, leaders, and those in need in prayer ([[Romans 1:9]], [[Hebrews 13:7]]). This cultivates love, empathy, and active participation in the body of Christ.
* **Enduring Perseverance:** To keep in mind the sufferings and examples of those who have gone before, particularly in times of trial ([[Hebrews 13:7]], [[Colossians 4:18]]). This encourages steadfastness and resilience.
This active remembrance combats spiritual amnesia, which can lead to apostasy, complacency, or a drifting away from God's truth. It ensures that the past informs the present and guides the future in faithful obedience.
3. **Covenantal Relationship:** In the biblical framework, "to remember" is often an act of covenant keeping. For God, it signifies His faithfulness to His promises. For humanity, it means living in accordance with His commands, recalling His mighty acts of deliverance, and maintaining a conscious, active awareness of His presence and will.
### Summary
μνημονεύω (mnēmoneúō) `{{G3421}}` is a multifaceted New Testament verb signifying "to remember," "to be mindful," or "to make mention." Rooted in the concept of memory, its semantic range extends from simple cognitive recall to active consideration, verbal recounting, and, in the divine sphere, the efficacious act of taking account for judgment or blessing. Biblically, it frequently appears as an exhortation for believers to actively recall foundational truths, heed warnings, and engage in intercessory prayer. Theologically, μνημονεύω underscores God's unwavering faithfulness, justice, and active involvement in creation, while simultaneously highlighting humanity's crucial responsibility to remember God's works and commands. This active remembrance serves as a vital spiritual discipline, combating forgetfulness and fostering a life of worship, obedience, and sustained communion within the covenant relationship.
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