a stronger form of μέν; a particle of affirmation (only with ἦ); assuredly:--+ surely.
Transliteration:mḗn
Pronunciation:mane
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek particle G3375 (μήν, transliterated as *mḗn*) functions as a strong particle of affirmation. Its base definition indicates it is an intensified form of G3303 (μέν), suggesting a heightened degree of emphasis or certainty. While G3303 can introduce a statement or a contrast, G3375 specifically serves to underscore the truthfulness or assuredness of what is being stated. It is consistently translated with terms like "assuredly," "surely," or "indeed," conveying an undeniable certainty. The provided definition notes its usage "only with G2228 (ἦ)," which highlights its role in forming emphatic expressions or rhetorical questions, though biblical usage also demonstrates its presence with εἰ in oath formulas. Its semantic range is narrow but potent, focusing exclusively on the forceful affirmation of truth.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Occurrences of G3375 in the New Testament are relatively few but carry significant weight due to their emphatic nature.
1. **[[John 7:26]]**: "Do the authorities *really* know that this is the Christ?" (ἦ μὴν οἱ ἄρχοντες ἔγνωσαν) Here, ἦ μὴν introduces a rhetorical question that expresses surprise or implies an obvious truth. It highlights the perceived inconsistency or blindness of the Jewish authorities who should, by their position, recognize the Messiah. The particle intensifies the incredulity or the self-evident nature of the situation.
2. **[[Hebrews 3:11]]**: "As I swore in My wrath, '*Surely* they shall not enter My rest.'" (ὡς ὤμοσα ἐν τῇ ὀργῇ μου· Εἰ μὴν εἰσελεύσονται εἰς τὴν κατάπαυσίν μου.)
3. **[[Hebrews 4:3]]**: "as He has said, 'As I swore in My wrath, *Surely* they shall not enter My rest.'" (καθὼς εἴρηκεν· Ὡς ὤμοσα ἐν τῇ ὀργῇ μου· Εἰ μὴν εἰσελεύσονται εἰς τὴν κατάπαυσίν μου.)
4. **[[Hebrews 6:14]]**: "Saying, '*Surely* blessing I will bless you and multiplying I will multiply you.'" (λέγων· Εἰ μὴν εὐλογῶν εὐλογήσω σε καὶ πληθύνων πληθυνῶ σε.)
In these three instances from Hebrews, G3375 appears in the formula εἰ μήν (if not, then surely/truly), which is a common Septuagintal (LXX) translation of the Hebrew oath formula אִם לֹא (im lo', "if not"). This construction functions as a strong negative oath, meaning "assuredly not" or, when the negative is implied by the context (as in [[Hebrews 6:14]] quoting [[Genesis 22:17]]), "truly" or "surely." In [[Hebrews 3:11]] and [[Hebrews 4:3]], it emphasizes the certainty of God's judgment against those who rebelled in the wilderness and would not enter His rest. In [[Hebrews 6:14]], it underscores the absolute certainty and unchangeableness of God's promise to Abraham. In all these contexts, G3375 serves to add an undeniable, solemn, and unalterable quality to the divine pronouncement.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related word is G3303 (μέν), from which G3375 (μήν) derives its intensified meaning. While G3303 often serves as a discourse marker, indicating a slight pause or a contrast ("on the one hand"), G3375 pushes this function towards definitive affirmation. The particle G2228 (ἦ) is also closely related, as its combination with G3375 (e.g., ἦ μὴν) forms a powerful emphatic expression. Conceptually, G3375 aligns with ideas of certainty, truth, and divine faithfulness. Its use in oath formulas connects it to the broader biblical theme of God's immutable word and the binding nature of His covenants and declarations. It reinforces the reliability of God's character and His promises, contrasting with human doubt or unfaithfulness.
### Theological Significance
Though a particle, G3375 carries significant theological weight by amplifying the certainty of divine statements. In the context of [[John 7:26]], it subtly highlights the tension between human perception and divine truth concerning Jesus' identity, subtly underscoring the spiritual blindness of the religious leaders. More profoundly, its consistent use in the book of Hebrews within divine oath formulas (εἰ μήν) underscores the absolute immutability of God's word.
When God swears an oath using this emphatic particle, it means His promise or judgment is utterly reliable and unchangeable. In [[Hebrews 3:11]] and [[Hebrews 4:3]], it emphasizes the certainty of God's judgment against unbelief and disobedience, serving as a solemn warning. Conversely, in [[Hebrews 6:14]], it provides the bedrock for Christian hope, assuring believers that God's promises are as certain as His own character. The particle, therefore, serves as a linguistic anchor for the theological doctrine of God's faithfulness (Hebrew: אֱמוּנָה, ʼĕmûnâ) and the unshakeable foundation of His covenant with humanity. It reinforces the idea that God's word is not merely true, but *assuredly* true, providing ultimate security for those who trust in Him.
### Summary
G3375 (μήν) is a Greek particle of strong affirmation, conveying absolute certainty and emphasis. It is an intensified form of G3303 (μέν) and is typically translated as "assuredly," "surely," or "indeed." While rare in the New Testament, its occurrences are impactful. In [[John 7:26]], it appears as ἦ μὴν, intensifying a rhetorical question. More significantly, in Hebrews (3:11, 4:3, 6:14), it forms part of the divine oath formula εἰ μήν, underscoring the unshakeable certainty of God's promises and judgments. Theologically, G3375 serves to highlight the immutability of God's word and character, reinforcing the divine faithfulness and providing a firm foundation for the believer's hope and trust in the absolute reliability of God's declarations.
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