### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek phrase **ei dè mḗ(ge)**, represented by `{{G1490}}`, functions as a critical conditional term meaning **but if not**, **or else**, or **otherwise**. It appears 14 times in 14 unique verses, serving to introduce a contrasting alternative or the consequence of failing to meet a specified condition. It clearly demarcates a choice between two outcomes, making it a powerful rhetorical tool in Scripture.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G1490}}` is frequently used to deliver solemn warnings. For instance, Jesus warns the church in Ephesus to repent, "**or else** I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick" [[Revelation 2:5]]. The phrase also illustrates fundamental principles in parables, such as the incompatibility of new wine and old bottles, where "**else** the new wine doth burst the bottles" [[Mark 2:22]]. It can also provide assurance by negating a contrary possibility, as when Jesus states there are many mansions in His Father's house, adding, "**if it were not** so, I would have told you" [[John 14:2]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the contexts in which `{{G1490}}` appears:
* `{{G3340}}` **metanoéō** (repent): This word, meaning to think differently or feel compunction, is often the required action to avoid the negative consequence introduced by **or else** ([[Revelation 2:5]], [[Revelation 2:16]]).
* `{{G622}}` **apóllymi** (perish): This term, meaning to destroy fully or be lost, describes the outcome in the parables of the wineskins if the warning of `{{G1490}}` is not heeded, where the bottles **will be marred** or **shall perish** ([[Mark 2:22]], [[Luke 5:37]]).
* `{{G2537}}` **kainós** (new): This word for something new in freshness is central to the parables of the new patch and **new** wine, where attempts to mix it with the old lead to the negative alternative introduced by **else** ([[Luke 5:36]], [[Matthew 9:17]]).
* `{{G4100}}` **pisteúō** (believe): This word is presented as a primary option, where the alternative introduced by `{{G1490}}` is to believe based on the evidence of works [[John 14:11]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1490}}` lies in its power to frame a critical decision.
* **Choice and Consequence:** The phrase consistently presents a choice between two paths. For example, doing alms for God's glory results in a reward from the **Father**, but **otherwise** there is no reward [[Matthew 6:1]]. Similarly, one must repent, **or else** face judgment [[Revelation 2:16]].
* **Irreconcilable Natures:** In the parables of the garments and wineskins, **else** `{{G1490}}` underscores the principle that the **new** covenant cannot be patched onto an old framework; the attempt will make the rent **worse** or cause the wine to **perish** ([[Mark 2:21]], [[Mark 2:22]]).
* **Divine Assurance:** Used hypothetically, as in "**if it were not** so," it functions to eliminate doubt and affirm the absolute certainty of Christ's statements about the "many mansions" He goes to **prepare** [[John 14:2]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1490}}` is more than a simple conjunction; it is a rhetorical marker that presents a pivotal crossroad. It clarifies the stakes by showing the direct consequences of action or inaction. Whether warning of a removed **candlestick** [[Revelation 2:5]], illustrating the incompatibility of the **old** and **new** [[Luke 5:37]], or reinforcing a divine promise [[John 14:2]], **ei dè mḗ(ge)** forces the reader to consider the alternative and choose wisely.
TRV