διαμένω (diamenō)
diamenō
to remain
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 5 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb diamenō means to stay or remain in a place or state. It appears five times in the New Testament, with notable uses in Luke, Galatians, Hebrews, and 2 Peter. In Luke’s Gospel, it describes people waiting outside while Jesus speaks inside (Luke 1:22), and later refers to those who continue steadfastly in their commitment (Luke 22:28). The word conveys a sense of enduring presence or continuity.
Its root combines dia (“through” or “completely”) with menō (“to remain”), suggesting not just temporary staying but persistent abiding. This distinction gives diamenō a stronger sense than mere physical presence—it implies loyalty, constancy, and unbroken connection. In Hebrews 1:11, it is used to describe how the heavens will perish while Christ remains forever, highlighting its theological weight in expressing permanence.
Translators typically render diamenō as “remain” or “continue,” though these English words can feel static. The Greek carries more dynamic force—especially when applied to faithfulness under trial or divine endurance. Unlike synonyms that emphasize momentary action, diamenō points to sustained presence over time, often in contrast to what is passing away.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word diamenō carries a quiet strength. It is not just about staying in one place, but about enduring through time with purpose. When we read that Jesus’ companions remained with Him during trials, or that the heavens will pass away while He remains, we see a picture of steadfast loyalty. This is more than physical presence; it is a commitment that holds firm when circumstances shift around us.
In your own life, this call to remain offers stability. It reminds us that our faith is not meant to be fleeting or reactive. Instead, it invites us to abide in truth and love, even when the world feels like it is changing rapidly. Like the promise that Christ remains forever, we are anchored in something permanent. This constancy brings peace, knowing that our connection to God is unbroken by temporary struggles.
As you navigate seasons of uncertainty, remember that remaining is an active choice. It means staying close to Jesus, trusting His promises, and letting His truth shape your daily steps. This enduring presence is a gift that sustains us, offering hope that what we build in Him will last beyond the passing days.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 5 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- was remaining1×
- remain;1×
- may continue1×
- having remained1×
- continue1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- διέμενεν1×
- διαμένεις·1×
- διαμένει1×
- διαμείνῃ1×
- διαμεμενηκότες1×
Key Verses
-
Luke 22:28
“But you are those who have continued with me in my trials.
This verse highlights diamenō as loyal companionship during trials, showing that remaining with Jesus is tested and proven in hardship.
-
Hebrews 1:11
They will perish, but you continue. They all will grow old like a garment does.
Here the word contrasts the perishable creation with Christ’s eternal permanence, emphasizing His unchanging nature.
-
Galatians 2:5
to whom we gave no place in the way of subjection, not for an hour, that the truth of the Good News might continue with you.
Paul uses this term to describe the continuous preservation of Gospel truth, showing that remaining involves protecting what is entrusted to us.