### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adverb **mēdamōs**, represented by `{{G3365}}`, is an emphatic term of negation meaning **by no means** or **not so**. Derived from a compound of μή and (somebody), it appears only **2 times** in **2 unique verses**, yet its usage marks a pivotal moment in scripture.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In both biblical occurrences, **mēdamōs** is spoken by the apostle Peter `{{G4074}}` in response to a divine vision. In this vision, he is commanded by the Lord `{{G2962}}` to eat animals he considers ceremonially defiled. Peter's immediate and forceful reply is "**Not so**, Lord" [[Acts 10:14]]. He repeats this account, using the same emphatic phrase, when explaining his actions to the other apostles, stating that nothing **common** `{{G2839}}` or **unclean** `{{G169}}` had ever **entered** `{{G1525}}` his mouth `{{G4750}}` [[Acts 11:8]]. The word captures Peter's profound, instinctual rejection of an instruction that contradicts his lifelong adherence to dietary law.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are central to understanding the context of `{{G3365}}`:
* `{{G4074}}` **Pétros** (Peter): This name identifies the apostle who speaks the phrase "**not so**," grounding the term in a specific narrative and character's perspective [[Acts 10:14]].
* `{{G2962}}` **kýrios** (Lord, master): As the respectful title Peter uses when addressing God, it highlights the gravity of his refusal. He is not just declining a suggestion but contradicting a command from a supreme authority [[Acts 11:8]].
* `{{G169}}` **akáthartos** (unclean): Defined as impure, this is one of the two reasons for Peter's refusal. His statement that he has never eaten anything **unclean** reveals the deep-seated religious convictions being challenged [[Acts 10:14]].
* `{{G2839}}` **koinós** (common): Meaning profane or ceremonially defiled, this word is used in conjunction with "unclean" to describe the forbidden items. Peter's refusal is based on the food being either **common** or unclean [[Acts 11:8]].
### Theological Significance
The theological importance of `{{G3365}}` lies in the dramatic context of its usage.
* **Adherence to Law:** Peter's use of "**not so**" demonstrates an unwavering commitment to established divine law. His response is not one of casual defiance but of disciplined piety clashing with a new and perplexing command from the **Lord** `{{G2962}}` [[Acts 10:14]].
* **A Catalyst for Revelation:** The strength of Peter's refusal, "by no means," sets the stage for a profound theological shift. It creates the narrative tension necessary for God to reveal a new covenant reality where things previously considered **unclean** `{{G169}}` are now declared clean by God himself.
* **Human Resistance to Divine Change:** The word captures a universal human experience: the shock and resistance felt when a deeply held tradition is overturned by new divine instruction. Peter's declaration in [[Acts 11:8]] shows how significant and difficult this change was for the early church.
### Summary
In summary, **mēdamōs** `{{G3365}}` is more than a simple negative. As an emphatic "by no means," it serves as a crucial hinge point in the book of Acts. Spoken by **Peter** `{{G4074}}`, it encapsulates the conflict between old covenant law and new covenant revelation. Its use in response to the command to eat things considered **common** `{{G2839}}` or **unclean** `{{G169}}` underscores the magnitude of the change God was introducing to His people.
TRV