μεμψίμοιρος (mempsimoiros)
mempsimoiros
malcontent
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The rare adjective mempsimoiros describes a person who is perpetually dissatisfied with their circumstances. Literally meaning "blaming one’s lot," it combines a root for complaint with the word for fate or share. This creates a vivid image of someone who views their life as an unfair burden and constantly voices resentment about it.
Its only occurrence in the New Testament appears in Jude 1:16, where it characterizes certain false teachers. These individuals are described as grumblers, malcontents who follow their own sinful desires. The term highlights not just unhappiness, but an active, vocal discontent that leads them to criticize others and God.
This single usage underscores the destructive nature of chronic complaining. Rather than accepting life’s challenges with grace, such a person allows bitterness to shape their interactions. Jude uses this precise word to show how inner dissatisfaction can manifest as outward hostility toward the community of faith.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word mempsimoiros paints a picture of someone who is permanently unhappy with their portion in life. It describes a person who constantly complains about their circumstances, viewing them as unfair burdens rather than gifts. This kind of chronic dissatisfaction often spills over into criticism of others and even God, creating division within communities.
When we encounter this attitude, it serves as a gentle reminder to examine our own hearts. Are we quick to point out what is wrong with our situation, or are we seeking gratitude in the midst of challenges? Choosing contentment does not mean ignoring real difficulties; it means refusing to let bitterness dictate our perspective and interactions.
Instead of allowing resentment to shape our days, we can invite God’s peace to settle in our minds. This shift helps us treat others with kindness rather than judgment. May you find freedom from the weight of constant complaint, discovering joy in the present moment and grace for those around you.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- discontented,1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- μεμψίμοιροι,1×
Key Verses
-
Jude 1:16
These are murmurers and complainers, walking after their lusts—and their mouth speaks proud things—showing respect of persons to gain advantage.
This verse uses mempsimoiros to identify false teachers whose vocal discontent reveals their self-serving motives and pride.