ἀναμιμνήσκω

I remind, admonish, remember

Definition

ἀναμιμνήσκω means 'to remind' or 'to cause someone to remember.' In the active voice, it often refers to one person reminding another, as when Paul reminds Timothy of his spiritual gift (2 Timothy 1:6). In the passive voice, it means 'to remember' or 'to be reminded,' describing a personal recollection, such as Peter remembering Jesus' words after his denial (Mark 14:72). The word can also carry the sense of 'admonish' or 'bring to mind' for the purpose of encouragement or correction, as seen when Paul reminds the Corinthians of his ways in Christ (1 Corinthians 4:17).

Biblical Usage

This verb is used six times in the New Testament, appearing in Gospels, Pauline epistles, and Hebrews. It often occurs in personal, relational contexts. For example, in Mark 11:21, Peter 'calls to mind' the withered fig tree. In 2 Corinthians 7:15, Paul notes how the Corinthians 'remembered' Titus with affection. The usage spans both active reminders from an external source (2 Timothy 1:6) and passive, internal remembering (Hebrews 10:32, where believers are urged to 'recall' their past endurance).

Etymology

Derived from the preposition ἀνά (ana, often meaning 'up' or 'again') and the verb μιμνήσκω (mimnēskō, 'to remember'). The prefix ἀνά can intensify the meaning, suggesting 'to call to mind again' or 'to remind thoroughly.' It is related to μνημονεύω (mnēmoneuō, G3421), another common verb for 'remember,' but ἀναμιμνήσκω often implies a more active prompting or reawakening of memory.

Semantic Range

This word highlights the importance of memory and remembrance in the Christian life. It is tied to the doctrine of sanctification, where believers are called to remember God's past works (Hebrews 10:32), their calling (2 Timothy 1:6), and Christ's teachings (Mark 14:72) as a means of perseverance, correction, and encouragement. Understanding this Greek term enriches Bible reading by showing that biblical 'remembering' is often an active, communal process of recalling God's truth, not merely a passive mental act.

In the Greco-Roman world, oral tradition and communal memory were vital. 'Reminding' was a key pedagogical and rhetorical tool used by teachers and leaders to reinforce teachings and values. The New Testament usage reflects this, where apostles and writers actively remind communities of foundational truths to strengthen their faith and correct their practice, viewing shared memory as essential for group identity and endurance.

μιμνήσκω (mimnēskō, G3403) — the simpler root verb meaning 'to remember' or 'to be mindful of.' μνημονεύω (mnēmoneuō, G3421) — a more general term for 'to remember' or 'keep in mind,' often used for recalling facts or teachings. ὑπομιμνήσκω (hypomimnēskō, G5279) — 'to remind' or 'suggest,' with a similar meaning but sometimes a gentler connotation of prompting.

Word Details

Scripture References