NAS Word Usage – Total: 1

1. to cause to forget
2. to forget

Etymology and Definition

“Eklanthanomai” is derived from the Greek verb “lanthanomai” (λανθάνομαι), which means “to forget” or “to be hidden.” The prefix “ek-” intensifies the meaning, suggesting a profound, often willful, forgetting. The complete term “Eklanthanomai” thus translates to “to completely forget” or “to entirely overlook.”

In examining its components:

• Lanthanomai (λανθάνομαι): This root word means “to be forgotten” or “to escape notice.”
• Ek (ἐκ): A preposition that signifies “out of” or “from,” intensifying the verb it modifies.

Occurrences in the Bible

Interestingly, “Eklanthanomai” isn’t a frequently occurring word in the New Testament, but it finds its place in several key passages in the Septuagint, the Greek translation of the Old Testament. The few instances where it appears offer profound insights into the human condition and divine interaction.

Notable Biblical Passages

1. Psalms 10:4 (Septuagint) The Psalmist often uses “Eklanthanomai” to highlight the arrogance of the wicked who think that God has forgotten their deeds. In Psalm 10:4, the text can be interpreted as the wicked saying in their hearts, “God has forgotten; He has hidden His face; He will never see it.”
2. Deuteronomy 31:21 (Septuagint) Another important instance is in Deuteronomy 31:21, where Moses speaks of a song that will remind future generations of God’s commandments, stating that this song shall not be “eklanthanomai” from the descendants. Here the term signifies the necessary permanence and the danger of complete forgetfulness.

Theological Implications

The context in which “Eklanthanomai” appears often relates to moral and spiritual forgetfulness. This word isn’t just about the absence of memory; it’s often linked to a voluntary or neglectful type of forgetting that carries ethical and theological implications.

Forgetfulness of God

One of the critical lessons conveyed through the term is the human tendency to forget God, His laws, and His righteousness. Biblical texts using “Eklanthanomai” underline this spiritual amnesia’s gravity, contrasting divine omniscience and human forgetfulness. The term implies a serious lapse, potentially leading to moral and spiritual decay.

Divine Remembrance

Conversely, the rare but poignant use of “Eklanthanomai” in Scripture also serves as a backdrop to highlight the steadfastness of God’s remembrance and faithfulness. Human beings might forget, but God does not. This stark contrast brings out a profound theological truth: the unfailing memory of God against the fallible, often forgetful nature of humans.

Practical Applications

Understanding “Eklanthanomai” in its biblical context offers several takeaways for modern readers:

1. Spiritual Vigilance Recognizing the human propensity for forgetfulness, particularly in our relationship with the divine, can prompt believers to be more vigilant in their spiritual practices.
2. Regular Reflection Incorporating regular scriptural meditation and prayer can combat the risk of spiritual forgetfulness. Just as Moses instituted songs and laws to remind the Israelites, contemporary believers can use similar practices.
3. Cultivating Memory Biblical stories, hymns, and rituals cultivate cultural and spiritual memory, serving as preventive measures against “Eklanthanomai.”

The Modern Relevance

Despite its ancient origin, “Eklanthanomai” holds modern relevance. In an era of distractions and information overload, the concept of forgetting crucial elements of faith, truth, and morality is more pertinent than ever. Just as ancient societies used this term to caution against spiritual drift, contemporary societies can benefit from its warning.

Conclusion

The exploration of “Eklanthanomai” opens a window into the richness of biblical Greek, revealing how even a single term can encapsulate deep ethical and theological concerns. Understanding what “Eklanthanomai” means in Greek, especially in its biblical context, not only enriches our reading of the Scriptures but also challenges us to live more consciously and spiritually aware.

By maintaining awareness of our tendency to forget and taking steps to remember spiritual truths, we align ourselves more closely with the divine will, preserving our spiritual health and fortifying our relationship with God. In a world brimming with distractions, the ancient warning of “Eklanthanomai” remains ever-relevant, urging us to remember and steadfastly hold onto faith, values, and divine commandments.