The meaning of “μετάνοια”
Understanding metánoia reveals the original theological depth often simplified in translation.
repentance. - (subjectively) compunction (for guilt, including reformation) - by implication, reversal (of (another's) d...
μετάνοια
repentance. - (subjectively) compunction (for guilt, including reformation) - by implication, reversal (of (another's) decision)
Occurrences in the Bible
| Reference | Text | |
|---|---|---|
| Matthew 3:11 | “I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire:” Word: μετάνοια (metánoia) | |
| Mark 2:17 | “When Jesus heard it, he saith unto them, They that are whole have no need of the physician, but they that are sick: I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” Word: μετάνοια (metánoia) | |
| Luke 5:32 | “I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” Word: μετάνοια (metánoia) | |
| Acts 19:4 | “Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus.” Word: μετάνοια (metánoia) | |
| Romans 2:4 | “Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance?” Word: μετάνοια (metánoia) |
Theological Word Study: Repent
Old Testament Usage
Meaning: To turn back, relent
The Hebrew shuv (שׁוּב) means to turn or return—a physical turning that represents spiritual redirection back to God. Nacham (נָחַם) conveys grief or relenting, often used of God 'repenting' of judgment.
New Testament Usage
Meaning: To change one's mind, repent
The Greek metanoeo (μετανοέω) means to change one's mind or purpose—a complete transformation of thinking. John the Baptist and Jesus both began their ministries with 'Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand' (Matthew 3:2; 4:17).