The meaning of “μή”
Understanding mḗ reveals the original theological depth often simplified in translation.
a primary particle of qualified negation (whereas οὐ expresses an absolute denial) any but (that), X forbear, + God forb...
μή
a primary particle of qualified negation (whereas οὐ expresses an absolute denial) any but (that), X forbear, + God forbid, + lack, lest, neither, never, no (X wise in), none, nor, (can-)not, nothing, that not, un(-taken), without. - (adverb) not, (conjunction) lest - also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas οὐ expects an affirmative one)) whether
Occurrences in the Bible
| Reference | Text | |
|---|---|---|
| Matthew 10:19 | “But when they deliver you up, take no thought how or what ye shall speak: for it shall be given you in that same hour what ye shall speak.” Word: μή (mḗ) | |
| Romans 11:1 | “I say then, Hath God cast away his people? God forbid. For I also am an Israelite, of the seed of Abraham, of the tribe of Benjamin.” Word: μή (mḗ) | |
| Philippians 2:12 | “Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.” Word: μή (mḗ) | |
| 2 Timothy 2:14 | “Of these things put them in remembrance, charging them before the Lord that they strive not about words to no profit, but to the subverting of the hearers.” Word: μή (mḗ) | |
| 2 Peter 3:8 | “But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.” Word: μή (mḗ) |