### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **mnēmósynon**, represented by `{{G3422}}`, is a term for a **memorial**. It appears **3 times** in **3 unique verses** in the Bible. The word's base definition is a reminder or a record, something that serves to call a person or action to mind.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G3422}}` is used in two key contexts. It is used to describe an act of devotion that will be recounted in perpetuity. In both Matthew and Mark, a woman’s deed is to be spoken of "for a **memorial** of her" wherever the gospel is preached in the whole world ([[Matthew 26:13]], [[Mark 14:9]]). The term is also used to describe acts of piety that are remembered by God. In Acts, an angel tells Cornelius that his prayers and alms have come up "for a **memorial** before God" [[Acts 10:4]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of what constitutes a memorial and how it is communicated:
* `{{G4335}}` **proseuchḗ** (prayer): This term for prayer or worship is directly linked to **mnēmósynon**, as Cornelius's **prayers** ascended as a memorial before God [[Acts 10:4]].
* `{{G1654}}` **eleēmosýnē** (alms): Meaning beneficence or a benefaction, this word is paired with prayer to form the substance of the memorial in Acts. Cornelius's **alms** were also remembered by God [[Acts 10:4]].
* `{{G2980}}` **laléō** (to talk, i.e. utter words): This word describes how the memorial of the woman's deed is to be preserved. It is to be **spoken** of wherever the gospel is preached [[Mark 14:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3422}}` is significant, highlighting what is deemed worthy of remembrance by God and the church.
* **Divine Acknowledgment:** The term illustrates that acts of sincere piety, such as the **prayers** and **alms** of Cornelius, are not overlooked but ascend as a **memorial** before God, catching His attention [[Acts 10:4]].
* **Perpetual Witness:** A **memorial** is linked to the proclamation of the gospel itself. The story of the woman's selfless act is commanded to be told as a **memorial** of her, ensuring its place in the ongoing story of faith [[Matthew 26:13]].
* **Actions as Monuments:** The concept redefines a memorial away from a physical object to a significant action. Devotion to God, expressed through worship and charity, is what creates a lasting record.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3422}}` defines a **memorial** not as a physical monument but as a remembered record. It is used to guarantee the enduring legacy of a significant act of worship, ensuring it is told wherever the gospel is preached [[Matthew 26:13]]. It also describes how acts of genuine piety, like prayer and giving alms, are actively recognized and remembered by God Himself [[Acts 10:4]]. The word thus illustrates that what makes a lasting impression in the Kingdom of God are deeds of faith and devotion.
TRV