μεριμνάω

I am anxious, distracted

Definition

The verb μεριμνάω (merimnaō) primarily means to be anxious, worried, or distracted by cares. It describes a state of being divided or pulled in different directions by concerns, often about daily needs like food and clothing (Matthew 6:25-34). In a negative sense, it warns against the kind of worry that reflects a lack of trust in God's provision. However, it can also have a positive sense of 'caring for' or being concerned about others, as when Paul writes about the church's care for him (Philippians 2:20) or how a husband cares for his wife (1 Corinthians 7:32-34).

Biblical Usage

This word is used 17 times in the New Testament, most prominently in Jesus's teaching in the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 6:25, 27, 28, 31, 34) where he commands his followers not to be anxious about material needs. It also appears in instructions not to worry when facing persecution (Matthew 10:19, Luke 12:11). The positive sense of 'care for' is seen in passages like 1 Corinthians 7:32-34 and Philippians 2:20. The usage is split between Gospels (especially Matthew and Luke) and Pauline epistles.

Etymology

Derived from the noun μερίμνη (merimna), meaning 'care' or 'anxiety,' which itself comes from μερίζω (merizō, 'to divide'). The root idea is of a mind being divided or distracted by multiple concerns, pulled in different directions. This etymological background illuminates the word's core meaning of fragmented attention due to worry.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it addresses the fundamental human struggle with anxiety and trust. Jesus's command 'Do not be anxious' (μὴ μεριμνᾶτε) in Matthew 6:25-34 directly connects worry to a deficient faith in God the Father's loving provision and sovereignty. It contrasts pagan worry with the believer's call to seek God's kingdom first. Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by highlighting that the biblical remedy for anxiety is not mere relaxation but a singular, undivided focus on God and his purposes.

In the ancient Greco-Roman world, anxiety about basic survival—food, clothing, and safety—was a daily reality for most people, especially the poor and agrarian classes. Jesus's audience would have intimately understood these pressing concerns. His command not to worry challenged both the practical preoccupations and the underlying worldview that saw life as sustained solely by human effort, instead pointing to the Creator's care as seen in nature (Matthew 6:26, 28-30).

φροντίζω (phrontizō, G5426) — implies a more neutral or positive 'giving thought to' or 'being mindful of.' μελετάω (meletaō, G3191) — means to practice, study, or ponder, focusing on diligent effort rather than anxious distraction. ταράσσω (tarassō, G5015) — means to stir up, trouble, or disturb, often describing a more agitated emotional state than μεριμνάω.

Word Details

Scripture References