### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **mēdé**, represented by `{{G3366}}`, is a particle used for continued negation, defined as "but not, not even; in a continued negation, nor". It appears **57 times** across **49 unique verses**, serving to extend and reinforce negative commands and statements.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical instruction, `{{G3366}}` is used to link a series of prohibitions or negative statements. It commands believers against anxiety, stating "Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; **nor yet for** your body" [[Matthew 6:25]]. It also establishes clear ethical and relational boundaries, as when disciples are instructed to provide "**neither** gold, **nor** silver, **nor** brass in your purses, **Nor** scrip for your journey, **neither** two coats, **neither** shoes, **nor** yet staves" [[Matthew 10:9-10]]. The particle can also add emphasis, as in the command to not associate with an unrepentant brother, "with such an one **no not** to eat" [[1 Corinthians 5:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the function and scope of negation in the scriptures:
* `{{G3361}}` **mḗ**: This is a primary particle of qualified negation from which **mēdé** is derived. It is frequently used to introduce a negative command that `{{G3366}}` then continues, as in "Love **not** the world, **neither** the things that are in the world" [[1 John 2:15]].
* `{{G3756}}` **ou**: This is the absolute negative adverb, meaning no or not. It is often used in passages with `{{G3366}}` to express an absolute denial, contrasting with the qualified negation of **mḗ** and its compounds [[John 14:27]].
* `{{G3383}}` **mḗte**: Similar to **mēdé**, this word means "neither or nor" and is used for continued negation. It can be seen working alongside `{{G3366}}` to list things that the Sadducees deny, such as resurrection, angel, or spirit [[Acts 23:8]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3366}}` lies in its role in defining Christian conduct by clearly stating what is forbidden or to be avoided.
* **Prohibitions Against Sin and Worldliness:** The particle is used to create lists of warnings against ungodly behavior. This is seen in the series of commands in 1 Corinthians, such as "**Neither** be ye idolaters" [[1 Corinthians 10:7]], "**Neither** let us commit fornication" [[1 Corinthians 10:8]], and "**Neither** murmur ye" [[1 Corinthians 10:10]].
* **Clarification of Christian Priorities:** By negating worldly concerns, `{{G3366}}` helps to focus the believer's trust in God. It is used to charge the rich "**not** highminded, **nor** trust in uncertain riches" [[1 Timothy 6:17]], redirecting their confidence toward the living God.
* **Defining Spiritual Realities:** The word is used to draw sharp contrasts between true and false realities. It distinguishes genuine love from mere words by stating, "let us **not** love in word, **neither** in tongue; but in deed and in truth" [[1 John 3:18]]. It is also used to warn leaders against improper motives, urging them to serve "**not** by constraint... **not** for filthy lucre" [[1 Peter 5:2]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3366}}` is a precise grammatical tool that plays a significant role in biblical ethics and theology. By extending negative commands, it creates clear and forceful prohibitions against sin, worldliness, and wrong attitudes. From warnings against anxiety to instructions for church leaders, **mēdé** helps to sharpen the boundaries between a life focused on God and one entangled with the world.
TRV