μήτε

nor, neither, not even

Definition

μήτε is a negative conjunction meaning 'nor', 'neither', or 'not even'. It is used to connect two or more negative clauses or phrases, often in a series to emphasize the exclusion of multiple items or actions. In some contexts, such as Matthew 5:34-36, it strengthens a prohibition by listing multiple examples to avoid. In other passages, like Luke 9:3, it enumerates items the disciples were not to take on their journey. The word functions to create comprehensive negation, ruling out all listed alternatives.

Biblical Usage

μήτε appears 18 times in the New Testament, primarily in the Gospels and Acts. It is often used in prohibitive or instructional contexts to list forbidden things. For example, in Jesus's teaching on oaths (Matthew 5:34-36), it connects a series of things by which one should not swear. In Luke 9:3, it lists items the disciples should not carry. It also appears in descriptive negations, as in Acts 23:8, where it states what the Sadducees do not believe. Its usage is consistent in creating paired or serial negations.

Etymology

μήτε is derived from the Greek negative particle μή (mē, G3361), meaning 'not', combined with the enclitic particle τε (te), meaning 'and' or 'both'. It is a compound conjunction literally meaning 'and not'. It functions as the negative counterpart to the connective καί (kai, G2532). Its formation emphasizes the combination of negations, linking multiple excluded elements.

Semantic Range

μήτε is significant in understanding the scope and precision of biblical commands and teachings. In Jesus's teaching on oaths (Matthew 5:34-36), its use underscores the absolute and comprehensive nature of His instruction—swearing by heaven, earth, Jerusalem, or one's own head are all equally invalid. This reinforces the call to complete integrity in speech. In missionary instructions (Luke 9:3), it clarifies the totality of dependence required on God's provision. Recognizing this conjunction helps readers see how biblical negations often systematically rule out a range of alternatives, emphasizing thorough obedience or belief.

In the Greco-Roman world, oaths and sworn statements were culturally significant for guaranteeing truth. Jesus's use of μήτε in Matthew 5:34-36 to reject swearing by various culturally accepted authorities (heaven, earth, Jerusalem, one's head) was a radical call to a higher standard of truthfulness where one's simple 'yes' or 'no' should be trustworthy. This contrasted with the practice of making qualified oaths to avoid absolute commitment.

οὐδέ (oude, G3761) — Also means 'and not' or 'nor', but often used after a preceding negative with οὐ (ou), whereas μήτε typically follows μή. μηδέ (mēde, G3366) — Very similar, often interchangeable with μήτε, but μήτε is more common in paired 'neither...nor' constructions.

Word Details

Scripture References