The meaning of “μέν”
Understanding mén reveals the original theological depth often simplified in translation.
a primary particle even, indeed, so, some, truly, verily. - properly, indicative of affirmation or concession (in fact) ...
μέν
a primary particle even, indeed, so, some, truly, verily. - properly, indicative of affirmation or concession (in fact) - usually followed by a contrasted clause with δέ (this one, the former, etc.)
Occurrences in the Bible
| Reference | Text | |
|---|---|---|
| Matthew 17:11 | “And Jesus answered and said unto them, Elias truly shall first come, and restore all things.” Word: μέν (mén) | |
| John 19:32 | “Then came the soldiers, and brake the legs of the first, and of the other which was crucified with him.” Word: μέν (mén) | |
| 1 Corinthians 6:7 | “Now therefore there is utterly a fault among you, because ye go to law one with another. Why do ye not rather take wrong? why do ye not rather suffer yourselves to be defrauded?” Word: μέν (mén) | |
| Ephesians 4:11 | “And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;” Word: μέν (mén) | |
| 1 Thessalonians 2:18 | “Wherefore we would have come unto you, even I Paul, once and again; but Satan hindered us.” Word: μέν (mén) |