μνήμη (mnēmē)
mnēmē
remembrance
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun mnēmē refers to the act of remembering or a specific instance of being remembered. In the New Testament, it appears only once, in 2 Peter 1:15, where the apostle writes about his desire that his readers might have a lasting mnēmē after his departure. This usage highlights a personal legacy—a deliberate effort to ensure that his teachings and experiences remain vivid in their minds long after he is gone.
While often translated simply as "memory," the word carries a nuance of active mention or record. Lexical sources note that in classical Greek, it frequently meant making a formal mention or reference to something. Peter’s choice of this term suggests he wanted his letters to serve as a permanent reminder, anchoring their faith in concrete recollection rather than fading tradition.
The word derives from the verb mneomai, meaning "to remember" or "call to mind." Its single occurrence underscores the weight of apostolic witness. By seeking to establish this mnēmē, Peter emphasizes that true spiritual continuity relies on faithful remembrance of what was entrusted to them, ensuring the message endures beyond the lifespan of its original messengers.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word mnēmē points to more than a passive memory; it is an active, deliberate act of keeping something alive in the mind. In 2 Peter 1:15, the apostle expresses his deep desire that his readers would always be able to remember the truths he shared, even after he was gone. This shows how much he valued their spiritual growth and wanted his teachings to remain vivid and present in their lives.
For you, this word reminds us that faith is built on remembering what God has done. It is not enough to hear a message once; we are called to hold it close, let it shape our thoughts, and keep it alive through daily reflection. When we actively remember God’s promises and past faithfulness, we anchor our hope in something real and lasting.
This kind of remembrance strengthens your walk with Christ. It helps you stay grounded when challenges arise, because you recall how God has been faithful before. Let this truth encourage you to treasure the Word, share it with others, and live in a way that honors those who have passed on the faith to you.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- a lasting remembrance1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- μνήμην1×
Key Verses
-
II Peter 1:15
Yes, I will make every effort that you may always be able to remember these things even after my departure.
Peter uses this word to express his intentional effort to ensure his teachings remain vividly remembered by the believers after his death.