Lexical Summary mnémé: Memory, remembrance, memorial Original Word: μνήμη Strong's Exhaustive Concordance remembrance. From mimnesko; memory -- remembrance. see GREEK mimnesko HELPS Word-studies 3420 mnḗmē (a feminine noun derived from 3415 /mnáomai) – remembrance, especially in a particular aspect ("a lasting memory"). This "memorial" (memory) deserves to be recollected, i.e. remembered to honor an important concept or teaching. NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom mnaomai (in the sense of to be mindful of) Definition memory, remembrance NASB Translation mind (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 3420: μνήμημνήμη, μνήμης, ἡ (μνάομαι); a. memory, remembrance; b. mention: μνήμην ποιεῖσθαι τίνος, to remember a thing, call it to remembrance, 2 Peter 1:15; the same expression occurs in Greek writings from Herodotus down, but in the sense of Latinmentionem facere, to make mention of a thing. Strong’s number 3420 appears only once in the Greek New Testament, in 2 Peter 1:15, where the apostle voices his pastoral intent that the churches should always have a lasting reminder of gospel truth after his departure. While the term is rare in form, the concept of purposeful, covenantal remembrance permeates the whole of Scripture, forming a vital thread that binds past revelation, present obedience, and future hope. Biblical Context In 2 Peter 1:12-15 the apostle recalls foundational doctrine and godly living, insisting that believers be “established in the truth” (verse 12). He pledges, “And I will make every effort to ensure that after my departure you will always be able to recall these things” (Berean Standard Bible). Here the single occurrence of 3420 encapsulates Peter’s shepherd-heart: he prepares written testimony so the church will not drift after his death (compare 2 Peter 3:1-2). The letter thus models how apostolic witness secures continuity of faith across generations. Historical Background of Memory Practices Greek and Jewish cultures treated memory as central to moral formation. In Hellenistic rhetoric, mnēmosynē (memory) preserved civic virtue, while Israel’s liturgy rehearsed mighty acts of God (Exodus 12:14; Deuteronomy 6:12). First-century believers therefore heard Peter’s pledge against a backdrop where written and oral recollection safeguarded identity. Theological Themes 1. Covenant Faithfulness — God “remembers” His covenant (Genesis 9:15; Psalm 105:8). Human remembrance corresponds by recalling His works and commands. Connections to Other Biblical Terms Though 3420 itself is unique in the New Testament, related words deepen the pattern: Pastoral and Discipleship Applications • Teaching ministries should revisit core doctrines regularly, echoing Peter’s resolve. Remembrance in Worship Liturgical elements—Scripture reading, hymns rich with salvation history, and the Supper—train congregations in collective memory. Public confession of faith and historic creeds also mirror Peter’s desire that truth endure beyond any single leader. Eschatological Perspective Final salvation includes perfect, joyous recall: “the former things shall not be remembered” as sources of grief (Isaiah 65:17), yet songs of redemption will never fade (Revelation 5:9). The church therefore cultivates sanctified memory now as rehearsal for eternal praise. Key Scripture References 2 Peter 1:12-15; Exodus 12:14; Deuteronomy 6:12; Joshua 4:7; Psalm 111:4; 1 Corinthians 11:24-26; 2 Timothy 2:14; Jude 17; Revelation 5:9. |
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