### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **mḗpote**, represented by `{{G3379}}`, functions as a particle of negative contingency, meaning **not ever**, **lest**, **if peradventure**, or **whether or not**. It appears **28 times** across **25 unique verses** in the Bible. This word is primarily used to introduce a potential negative outcome that should be avoided or to express uncertainty about a situation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G3379}}` is used in several key contexts. It serves as a caution against spiritual apathy or error, as seen in the warning to "Take heed... **lest** there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief" [[Hebrews 3:12]]. It also warns of tangible consequences, such as in the instruction not to cast pearls before swine, **lest** they trample them and turn to attack [[Matthew 7:6]]. The word is used to express divine judgment on hardened hearts, explaining that truth is veiled from them, **lest at any time** they should be converted and healed [[Matthew 13:15]]. It can also convey a sense of speculation or uncertainty, as when the people mused about John, **whether** he were the Christ, or not [[Luke 3:15]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the function of `{{G3379}}`:
* `{{G3361}}` **mḗ** (not, lest): This is the primary particle of qualified negation and a core component of **mḗpote**. It forms the basis of the negative condition that **mḗpote** introduces.
* `{{G3363}}` **hína mḗ** (in order that not, lest): This phrase is similar in function, often introducing a purpose clause to prevent a negative result. It is used alongside `{{G3379}}` for emphasis in the warning not to start building without being able to finish, **lest haply** (`hína mḗ`, `mḗpote`) onlookers begin to mock [[Luke 14:29]].
* `{{G5399}}` **phobéō** (to be alarmed, fear, reverence): This word for fear often provides the motivation for a clause introduced by `{{G3379}}`. The connection is explicit in the command to **fear**, **lest** anyone should seem to come short of God's promised rest [[Hebrews 4:1]].
* `{{G4337}}` **proséchō** (to take heed, beware): This verb of caution frequently precedes a warning clause that uses `{{G3379}}`. For example, believers are told to **take heed** to themselves, **lest at any time** their hearts be overcharged with the cares of life [[Luke 21:34]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3379}}` lies in its consistent use as a call to spiritual awareness and accountability.
* **A Call to Vigilance:** The word frequently appears in admonitions to be spiritually alert. It highlights the danger of drifting from the faith [[Hebrews 2:1]], developing a heart of unbelief [[Hebrews 3:12]], or becoming burdened by worldly cares [[Luke 21:34]].
* **Divine Sovereignty and Judgment:** In passages quoting Isaiah, `{{G3379}}` is used to explain why spiritual understanding is withheld from those with hardened hearts, "**lest at any time** they should see with their eyes... and should be converted" [[Matthew 13:15]]. This demonstrates a principle of divine judgment in response to human rejection.
* **Consequences of Action:** The word underscores that choices have consequences. It is used in practical advice to agree with an adversary quickly, **lest at any time** he deliver you to a judge [[Matthew 5:25]], and in spiritual warnings against acting foolishly with what is holy [[Matthew 7:6]].
* **Contingency in God's Plan:** It can also express a conditional hope within God's sovereignty. Instructors are to be meek with opponents, **if** God **peradventure** will give them repentance [[2 Timothy 2:25]], showing that God's grace is the necessary but not guaranteed outcome of human effort.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3379}}` **mḗpote** is more than a simple conjunction; it is a critical marker of caution, consequence, and contingency. It functions as a warning against spiritual and physical harm, linking actions to their potential outcomes and conveying profound theological truths about divine judgment, human responsibility, and the ever-present need for spiritual diligence. It serves as a constant biblical reminder to take heed, illustrating that faith requires active and watchful participation.
TRV