### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word ἐμέ (transliterated as emé, Strong's `{{G1691}}`) is the accusative singular form of the first-person pronoun ἐγώ (egō, `{{G1473}}`), meaning "I." While the Strong's definition broadly states "me:--I, me, my(-self)," emé specifically functions as the direct object or the object of a preposition that takes the accusative case. Its key characteristic, as noted in the "Base Definition," is that it is a "prolonged form of με (me, `{{G3165}}`)." This "prolonged" nature signifies emphasis. Unlike the shorter, enclitic form με (`{{G3165}}`), which is unemphatic and often attached to the preceding word, emé (`{{G1691}}`) stands independently and carries a distinct stress, highlighting the "me" in the sentence. Therefore, its core meaning is "me," but with a clear emphasis or distinction from other persons or objects.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The emphatic nature of emé (`{{G1691}}`) is evident in its biblical occurrences, particularly in the words of Jesus, where it underscores His unique identity and role.
* In [[John 14:1]], Jesus states, "Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in me (εἰς ἐμέ)." Here, emé (`{{G1691}}`) is the object of the preposition eis ("into" or "unto"), indicating belief directed specifically "into" or "unto" Jesus. The emphasis on "me" (Jesus) is paramount, placing belief in Him on par with belief in God, a profound theological claim.
* Similarly, in [[John 14:12]], Jesus declares, "Truly, truly, I say to you, he who believes in me (εἰς ἐμέ), the works that I do he will do also..." Again, the emphatic emé (`{{G1691}}`) highlights Jesus as the indispensable object of faith, without whom such works are not possible. The belief is not merely intellectual assent but a deep, personal commitment directed *to Him*.
* Paul also employs emé (`{{G1691}}`) to emphasize his personal circumstances or perspective. In [[Romans 1:15]], he writes, "So, as much as is in me (κατ’ ἐμέ), I am ready to preach the gospel to you who are in Rome also." The phrase κατ’ ἐμέ ("according to me" or "as far as I am concerned") uses the emphatic emé to underscore Paul's personal zeal and readiness for ministry, setting it apart as his individual commitment. This usage emphasizes the subject's personal capacity or disposition.
These examples demonstrate that while emé functions grammatically as an accusative pronoun, its "prolonged" nature consistently serves to draw specific attention to the first person, often in contexts of profound theological significance or personal conviction.
### Related Words & Concepts
Emé (`{{G1691}}`) is part of a broader family of first-person pronouns in Greek, all stemming from the nominative ἐγώ (egō, `{{G1473}}`). Understanding these related forms helps to appreciate the specific nuance of emé:
* ἐγώ (egō, `{{G1473}}`): The nominative form, meaning "I." It is often used emphatically when the subject is stated explicitly, especially in contrast to others.
* μου (mou, `{{G1700}}`): The genitive singular form, meaning "of me" or "my." It denotes possession or origin.
* μοι (moi, `{{G1698}}`): The dative singular form, meaning "to me" or "for me." It indicates the indirect object or benefit/detriment.
* με (me, `{{G3165}}`): The unemphatic, enclitic accusative singular form, also meaning "me." This is the shorter form from which emé (`{{G1691}}`) is "prolonged," highlighting the distinction of emphasis.
The concept of "self" or "personal identity" is inherently tied to these pronouns. In theological contexts, particularly in the Gospels, the use of first-person pronouns by Jesus shapes the understanding of His unique personhood and relationship with humanity and the Father.
### Theological Significance
The emphatic nature of emé (`{{G1691}}`), especially when spoken by Jesus, carries profound theological weight:
* **Christocentricity of Faith:** When Jesus commands belief "in me" (εἰς ἐμέ), it establishes Him as the central object of saving faith. This is not merely belief *about* Him, but belief *into* Him, signifying a personal and transformative trust. This usage underscores Jesus' unique identity as the Son of God and the sole mediator between God and humanity.
* **Divine Authority and Claim:** Jesus' frequent use of emphatic first-person pronouns, including emé, reflects His self-awareness of divine authority. He places Himself as the ultimate point of reference for salvation, truth, and life, a claim that would be blasphemous if not true.
* **Personal Relationship with God:** The emphasis on "me" highlights the intensely personal nature of the relationship God desires with humanity. Faith is not an abstract concept but a direct, personal encounter and commitment to the living Christ.
* **The "I Am" Sayings:** While emé is accusative, its emphatic quality resonates with the absolute "I Am" (ἐγώ εἰμι) statements of Jesus (e.g., [[John 8:58]]), which are direct claims to divine identity and presence, rooted in the nominative ἐγώ (`{{G1473}}`). The emphatic "me" reinforces the object of that divine "I Am."
### Summary
Emé (`{{G1691}}`) is the emphatic accusative singular form of the first-person pronoun "I." Distinct from the unemphatic με (`{{G3165}}`), emé serves to draw specific attention to the speaker, particularly when used by Jesus. In the New Testament, its occurrences underscore the Christocentric nature of faith, demanding belief and commitment directed specifically *to* Him. It highlights Jesus' divine authority and the intensely personal relationship He offers. When used by apostles like Paul, it emphasizes their personal conviction or perspective. Thus, emé is not merely a grammatical form but a powerful linguistic tool conveying emphasis and theological significance in the biblical text.
TRV