μή

not, lest

Definition

The Greek particle μή (mē) is a primary negative adverb used to express negation, prohibition, or a negative condition. It is often used in questions expecting a negative answer (e.g., 'Surely not?'), in prohibitions ('do not'), and in conditional clauses ('lest', 'so that...not'). For example, in prohibitions, it negates commands, as in Matthew 1:20, 'do not be afraid.' In conditional statements, it introduces a feared or undesirable consequence, as seen in Matthew 2:12, where the Magi were warned 'lest' they return to Herod. It also appears in rhetorical questions, as in Matthew 3:9, 'Do not presume to say to yourselves...'

Biblical Usage

Μή is used throughout the New Testament, appearing over 900 times. It is common in the Gospels, especially in Jesus' teachings for issuing prohibitions (e.g., Matthew 5:17, 'Do not think...') and in conditional warnings (e.g., Matthew 3:10, 'every tree...that does not bear good fruit is cut down'). It is also frequent in the Pauline epistles for constructing negative arguments and conditional clauses. Its usage is versatile, functioning in commands, questions, and dependent clauses to express negation or caution.

Etymology

Μή is a primitive Greek particle of negation, derived from the Proto-Indo-European root *meh₁-, meaning 'not.' It is a cognate of the Latin 'nē' and Sanskrit 'mā.' In Greek, it developed as the standard negative for non-indicative moods (like subjunctive and imperative), distinguishing it from οὐ (ou), which typically negates indicative statements. Its meaning has remained relatively stable from classical through Koine Greek.

Semantic Range

Μή is theologically significant as it often marks divine prohibitions, warnings, and the boundaries of faith and obedience. In Jesus' Sermon on the Mount (e.g., Matthew 5:17-18), it underscores the continuity and authority of God's law. In conditional statements, it highlights the consequences of disobedience, emphasizing human responsibility and God's protective guidance (e.g., Matthew 2:12). Understanding μή enriches Bible reading by clarifying the force of negative commands and the nuanced warnings in biblical exhortations.

In the Greco-Roman world, μή was a standard linguistic tool for negation in legal, philosophical, and religious texts, similar to modern usage. Its cultural understanding aligns with its biblical application, though modern readers might overlook its nuanced use in conditional clauses ('lest'), which was common in ancient rhetoric to express precaution or avoidance of harm.

οὐ (ou, G3756) — negates factual statements in the indicative mood; μηδέ (mēde, G3366) — 'and not,' 'nor,' used for connecting negatives; μηκέτι (mēketi, G3371) — 'no longer,' 'not anymore,' emphasizing cessation.

Word Details

Scripture References