Metanoia

Metanoia is a term derived from the Greek meta- meaning “beyond” or “after” and noia meaning “mind” or “thought.” In classical usage it simply referred to a change of mind. In Christian theology, metanoia acquired a specialized sense: a transformative turning away from sin and toward God, often described as repentance that affects the whole life rather than mere remorse. The concept emphasizes an interior reorientation that yields outward change in conduct.

In the New Testament, metanoia is frequently linked to baptism and the proclamation of the gospel. John the Baptist calls people to a metanoia for the forgiveness of sins; Jesus invites others to repent and believe, describing a meeting with the kingdom that requires inner conversion shaping attitudes and actions. The term thus conveys both a cognitive shift and ethical transformation.

Beyond religious contexts, metanoia is used more broadly to denote a profound personal change in beliefs, values, or worldview. In secular or philosophical discourse it can resemble conversion or a radical reorientation of life. While not a clinical term, it is commonly employed metaphorically to describe transformative experiences, including shifts of perspective or identity.