μωμάομαι

I blame, slander

Definition

μωμάομαι means to find fault with, blame, or criticize someone, often implying a negative judgment of their character or actions. In the New Testament, it carries the sense of bringing reproach or censure upon another person, sometimes with the connotation of slander or unjust accusation. The word appears only twice, both in 2 Corinthians, where Paul uses it to describe avoiding behavior that could give others legitimate grounds for criticism of his ministry (2 Corinthians 6:3) and to explain the careful handling of financial gifts to prevent any suspicion of wrongdoing (2 Corinthians 8:20).

Biblical Usage

This verb is used exclusively by the Apostle Paul in 2 Corinthians, both times in the context of proactively avoiding situations that could lead to others finding fault with Christian ministry. In 2 Corinthians 6:3, Paul states he gives 'no offense in anything, that our ministry be not blamed (μωμαθῇ),' emphasizing integrity to protect the gospel's reputation. In 2 Corinthians 8:20, he discusses administering a collection 'avoiding this, that no man should blame (μωμηθῶμεν) us' in handling the generous gift, highlighting accountability and transparency.

Etymology

Derived from the noun μῶμος (mōmos), meaning 'blame,' 'disgrace,' or 'blemish.' The verb form μωμάομαι is a deponent verb (middle/passive in form but active in meaning) built directly from this root, conveying the action of assigning blame or finding fault. Cognates include the adjective ἄμωμος (amōmos, G299), meaning 'without blemish' or 'blameless,' used in the New Testament to describe Christ's sacrificial perfection.

Semantic Range

This word underscores the biblical principle of living above reproach, especially for those in leadership or handling sacred responsibilities. Paul's use highlights that Christian conduct should proactively eliminate legitimate grounds for criticism, protecting the integrity of the gospel and the church's witness. Understanding μωμάομαι enriches reading by revealing the apostolic concern for accountability and the avoidance of even the appearance of evil, which remains a vital ethic for ministry today.

In Greco-Roman culture, public reputation and honor were paramount. To be 'blamed' (μωμάομαι) meant suffering social disgrace and loss of credibility. Paul's careful avoidance of blame reflects this cultural sensitivity, as any scandal could severely hinder the spread of the Christian message in a society highly attentive to personal and philosophical integrity.

καταλαλέω (katalaleō, G2635) — to speak against or slander, often with a sense of gossip or backbiting; ἐγκαλέω (egkaleō, G1458) — to bring a charge or accusation against, often in a legal context; μέμφομαι (memphomai, G3201) — to find fault or blame, but can imply a more general dissatisfaction.

Word Details

Scripture References