from the oblique cases of ἐγώ (ἐμοί, ἐμοῦ, ἐμέ); my:--of me, mine (own), my.
Transliteration:emós
Pronunciation:em-os'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word G1699 (ἐμός, *emós*) functions as a possessive pronoun, meaning "my," "mine," or "of me." It is derived from the oblique cases of the first-person singular pronoun G1473 (ἐγώ, *egō*), meaning "I." While ἐμός conveys possession, it often carries a stronger emphasis than the more common genitive form μου (*mou*) from ἐγώ. As an adjective, it agrees in gender, number, and case with the noun it modifies, or it can stand predicatively. Its semantic range primarily revolves around indicating a direct and often exclusive or emphatic relationship or ownership by the speaker. This emphasis can highlight a unique connection, personal responsibility, or inherent belonging.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term G1699 (ἐμός) appears frequently in the New Testament, particularly in the Gospels, where its use by Jesus is profoundly significant.
In the Gospel of John, Jesus consistently employs ἐμός to articulate His unique relationship with God the Father and His divine authority. For instance, He speaks of "my Father" ([[John 5:17]], [[John 10:29]], [[John 14:21]], [[John 20:17]]), a designation that underscores His singular Sonship and co-equality, distinguishing it from the general "our Father" taught to disciples. When Jesus declares, "My teaching is not My own, but His who sent Me" ([[John 7:16]]), or refers to "My words" ([[John 8:43]]), ἐμός emphasizes the divine origin and authoritative nature of His message, even as He attributes its ultimate source to the Father. Similarly, "My judgment is true" ([[John 8:16]]) asserts the veracity and divine backing of His discernment.
The possessive ἐμός also defines the intimate relationship between Christ and His followers. Jesus refers to "My sheep" ([[John 10:27]]), signifying a personal, protective, and knowing relationship with those who belong to Him. He also speaks of "My disciples" ([[John 13:35]]), highlighting their distinct identity and allegiance.
Paul's epistles also utilize ἐμός to convey personal connection and stewardship. When Paul speaks of "my gospel" ([[Romans 2:16]], [[2 Timothy 2:8]]), he is not claiming authorship of the good news, which is from God, but rather emphasizing his personal commission, responsibility, and the specific way in which he proclaims it. In [[Philippians 4:19]], "My God will supply all your needs," the use of ἐμός conveys a deep, personal, and experiential relationship with God, suggesting an intimate trust and reliance.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is G1473 (ἐγώ, *egō*), the first-person singular pronoun from which G1699 (ἐμός) is derived. Another closely related term is G3450 (μου, *mou*), the genitive form of ἐγώ, which also means "my" or "mine." The distinction between ἐμός and μου is crucial: while both convey possession, ἐμός is often used for emphasis, contrast, or when the pronoun functions as a predicate adjective, whereas μου is the more common, less emphatic genitive.
Other possessive pronouns that parallel ἐμός include G4674 (σός, *sos*, "your" singular), G2251 (ἡμέτερος, *hēmeteros*, "our"), and G5210 (ὑμέτερος, *hymeteros*, "your" plural). These terms collectively define relationships of possession, belonging, and identity within the biblical narrative. Concepts such as divine sonship, authority, covenant relationship, and personal faith are intrinsically linked to the use of these possessive terms.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of G1699 (ἐμός) is profound, particularly in Christology and the understanding of discipleship.
In the person of Jesus, the frequent use of "my Father" (e.g., [[John 5:17]]) is a foundational assertion of His unique, eternal Sonship and His divine nature. This is not merely a familial term but a declaration of ontological identity, distinguishing His relationship with God from that of any other created being. It underscores His co-equality and unity with the Father, a cornerstone of Trinitarian theology.
Furthermore, Jesus' references to "my words," "my teaching," and "my judgment" highlight the inherent authority and divine origin of His message. These are not human opinions but divine truth, carrying the weight and power of God Himself. This emphasizes the absolute necessity of heeding Christ's commands and teachings for salvation and sanctification.
For believers, Jesus' use of "my sheep" ([[John 10:27]]) and "my disciples" ([[John 13:35]]) speaks to the intimate, personal, and secure relationship between Christ and His followers. It conveys His ownership, care, and the covenantal bond that ensures their eternal security and belonging to Him. This evokes themes of shepherd and flock, Lord and servant, all rooted in a profound sense of belonging to Christ.
Paul's use of "my gospel" also carries theological weight, not as a claim of authorship over the divine message, but as an expression of his personal commitment, stewardship, and the specific way he was entrusted to proclaim it ([[Romans 2:16]]). It highlights the personal responsibility of believers to faithfully steward the truth of the gospel. When Paul speaks of "my God" ([[Philippians 4:19]]), it reveals a deeply personal and experiential faith, demonstrating the intimate relationship a believer can have with the living God, trusting in His provision and faithfulness.
### Summary
G1699 (ἐμός) is a possessive pronoun meaning "my" or "mine," derived from G1473 (ἐγώ, "I"). While similar to G3450 (μου), ἐμός often conveys a stronger emphasis, highlighting a unique, exclusive, or emphatic relationship. In biblical occurrences, particularly by Jesus, it underscores His unique divine Sonship ("my Father"), the absolute authority of His words and teachings ("my words," "my judgment"), and the intimate, secure relationship He shares with His followers ("my sheep," "my disciples"). For apostles like Paul, ἐμός expresses personal stewardship of the gospel ("my gospel") and a deep, experiential faith in God ("my God"). The word thus serves as a powerful linguistic tool to convey profound theological truths concerning Christ's identity, authority, and the nature of divine-human relationships.
TRV