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Unveiling the Word

Understanding Greek words is key to unlocking the deeper meanings of the New Testament. The Greek word μή (mē) is a crucial term that appears frequently in the Bible, often serving to negate actions or conditions. Appearing in Matthew 1:19, where it expresses Joseph’s desire to divorce Mary “secretly” and not (mē) expose her to public disgrace, this small word carries significant weight in many New Testament passages. It differs from other forms of negation, such as οὐ (ou), which negates statements of fact. μή has a broader and often more conditional use, making it essential for understanding the nuances of Greek language and thought, especially in biblical contexts.

Necessary Information

Greek Word: μή (mē, pronounced may)

Etymology: The word μή likely derives from the root word meh, a primitive particle of negation. Its primary function is to negate statements, particularly in non-factual or conditional contexts, such as when expressing intentions, commands, or wishes.

Part of Speech: μή is a negative particle, primarily used to negate verbs or clauses. It is often found in conditional clauses, imperatives, and other non-indicative moods, such as the subjunctive or optative.

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Defining Meanings

Meaning 1: Negation of intention or action – μή is commonly used to negate an action, especially in future or conditional contexts. For instance, in Matthew 1:19, Joseph intended to divorce Mary but not (mē) in a public manner.

Meaning 2: Prohibition or warning – It is frequently used in commands, often in the imperative mood, where it serves to prohibit an action. For example, in Matthew 6:25, Jesus instructs His followers, “Do not (mē) worry about your life.”

Meaning 3: Negation in subjunctive or optative mood – μή appears in various moods that express possibilities, desires, or hypothetical scenarios. This use emphasizes the potentiality or conditionality of the negated action.

Exploring Similar Words

οὐ (ou, pronounced oo): This word is another form of negation, typically used in factual statements or declarative sentences. Unlike μή, which negates potential or future actions, οὐ is used to deny statements of fact or reality.

οὐχί (ouchi, pronounced oo-khee): A strengthened form of οὐ, often used for emphatic denial. It can function similarly to μή in some contexts, but it generally has a more definitive or stronger sense of negation.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

As a negative particle, μή does not have declension or conjugation, but its usage varies depending on the mood of the verb it negates. It most commonly appears with verbs in the subjunctive or imperative moods, though it also frequently negates verbs in conditional sentences. Its placement is usually before the verb or clause it negates.

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Studying Lexicon Insights

Lexicons like BDAG and Thayer’s describe μή as an essential negation tool, particularly for expressing non-factual, conditional, or subjective ideas. It often marks prohibitions, warnings, or negated wishes. The word carries a slightly more nuanced role than οὐ, as it focuses on denying potential or desired actions rather than facts. In classical Greek contexts, μή similarly served to negate subjective or hypothetical conditions, particularly in philosophical or rhetorical writings. Theological implications in the New Testament often revolve around the idea of prohibiting sinful actions or warning against specific behaviors.

This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

Matthew 1:19: “And her husband Joseph, being a just man and unwilling to put her to shame, resolved to divorce her quietly [μή, secretly].”

Matthew 6:25: “Therefore I tell you, do not [μή] be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink.”

John 14:1: “Let not [μή] your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me.”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Noteworthy Summary

The word μή (mē) serves as a critical tool for negating actions, commands, or conditions within the New Testament. It is particularly important in prohibitive or conditional contexts, offering a nuanced negation that contrasts with οὐ, which denies factual or declarative statements. Understanding μή is key to interpreting many of Jesus’ teachings, where He commands or warns His followers not to engage in certain behaviors. Beyond its biblical usage, μή plays a similar role in classical Greek texts, often appearing in moral or philosophical discussions to negate potential or hypothetical actions. Its widespread application in ancient texts, both sacred and secular, highlights its importance in conveying the limits or boundaries of actions.

Did You Know?

• μή is often used in the New Testament to express prohibitions or warnings, especially in Jesus’ teachings.
• Unlike οὐ, μή is frequently found in conditional or subjunctive clauses, negating hypothetical or potential actions.
• The word appears over 650 times in the New Testament, underscoring its importance in conveying the boundaries of human behavior and divine instruction.