μάμμη

μάμμη

a grandmother

Definition

The Greek word μάμμη (mammē) is a noun that specifically means 'grandmother.' It is a term of familial affection and respect, denoting the mother of one's parent. In the New Testament, it appears only once, where it is used to refer to Timothy's grandmother Lois (2 Timothy 1:5). The word carries the straightforward, literal sense of a maternal or paternal grandmother, with no extended metaphorical meanings attested in biblical usage.

Biblical Usage

Μάμμη is used only one time in the New Testament, in 2 Timothy 1:5. In this context, the Apostle Paul mentions Timothy's 'sincere faith,' which first lived in his grandmother Lois and his mother Eunice. The word is used in a personal, familial context to establish a lineage of genuine faith passed down through generations within a household. There are no other occurrences or patterns of usage in the biblical text.

Etymology

Μάμμη is a native Greek word, likely of nursery or infantile origin, similar to the English 'mama.' It is an affectionate, reduplicative form used for a mother or grandmother. This term passed into Latin as 'mamma' and is the root for related words in many languages. In the Koine Greek of the New Testament, it retained its core meaning of a grandmother.

Semantic Range

While the word itself is a common familial term, its single biblical occurrence in 2 Timothy 1:5 is theologically significant. It highlights the vital role of family, and particularly of faithful women, in the spiritual formation and discipleship of the next generation. Paul points to Timothy's grandmother Lois as the original source of the 'sincere faith' that now resides in him. This underscores the importance of godly heritage and the transmission of faith within the household, a key concept in biblical discipleship. In the Greco-Roman world, the grandmother often held a respected position within the extended family household. Her role could include passing on traditions, stories, and wisdom to her grandchildren. The mention of Lois by name indicates her recognized personal faith and likely her active role in Timothy's upbringing, which would have been culturally understood as a significant formative influence. μήτηρ (mētēr, G3384) — mother; the direct parent. Πάππος (pappos, G3965) — grandfather; the male counterpart.

Word Details