### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **μήτε (mḗte)**, represented by `{{G3383}}`, is a particle of continued negation, meaning **neither** or **nor**. It appears 37 times in 18 unique verses. Derived from the words for "not" (μή) and "and" (τέ), its primary function is to extend a negative statement to cover multiple items in a series, creating a comprehensive list of exclusions.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G3383}}` is used to establish clear and sweeping prohibitions. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus commands his followers to "Swear not at all; **neither** by heaven... **Nor** by the earth... **neither** by Jerusalem" [[Matthew 5:34-35]]. This pattern of negation is repeated in James, which instructs believers to "swear not, **neither** by heaven, **neither** by the earth, **neither** by any other oath" [[James 5:12]]. It is also used to describe ascetic vows, as when the Jews bound themselves to **neither** eat **nor** drink until they had killed Paul [[Acts 23:12]], or to describe the ministry of John the Baptist, who came "**neither** eating **nor** drinking" [[Matthew 11:18]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the function and context of negation:
* `{{G3361}}` **mḗ** (not, lest): This is a primary particle of qualified negation and a root component of `{{G3383}}`. It is used to express conditional or subjective negation, as in the command to "be **not** conformed to this world" [[Romans 12:2]].
* `{{G3756}}` **ou** (no or not): This is the absolute negative adverb, used for direct and factual denials. Unlike the qualified negation of `{{G3361}}`, `{{G3756}}` states a certainty, such as when Paul writes that God has "**not** given us the spirit of fear" [[2 Timothy 1:7]].
* `{{G3660}}` **omnýō** (to swear): This verb is frequently the subject of negation by `{{G3383}}`. It means to take or declare on oath and is central to the commands against swearing oaths found in both Matthew and James ([[Matthew 5:34]]; [[James 5:12]]).
* `{{G2068}}` **esthíō** (to eat): Often paired with its counterpart "to drink," this action is negated by `{{G3383}}` to signify a total fast or a particular form of asceticism, as seen in the description of John the Baptist [[Luke 7:33]] and the vow of the Jews [[Acts 23:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3383}}` is found in its ability to create exhaustive and emphatic statements.
* **Absolute Prohibition:** The use of `{{G3383}}` in commands, such as the prohibition against swearing, leaves no room for exceptions. It constructs a complete boundary around an action, forbidding it in every listed form ([[Matthew 5:34-36]]; [[James 5:12]]).
* **Defining Divine Boundaries:** In Revelation, `{{G3383}}` is used to specify the limits of divine judgment and protection. Angels are commanded not to harm "the earth, **neither** the sea, **nor** the trees" until God's servants are sealed, demonstrating precise and controlled authority [[Revelation 7:3]].
* **Describing Unique Nature:** The word is used to describe the timeless nature of Melchizedek, who had "**neither** beginning of days, **nor** end of life" [[Hebrews 7:3]]. This chain of negations emphasizes his unique status as a figure who exists outside of normal human constraints.
* **Clarifying Religious Practice:** When the disciples are sent out, they are told to take nothing for their journey, "**neither** staves, **nor** scrip, **neither** bread, **neither** money," using `{{G3383}}` to define a radical dependence on God [[Luke 9:3]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3383}}` is a crucial grammatical tool that does more than simply negate. It links and extends a negative idea across a series of items, adding emphasis and comprehensive scope. Whether used to issue an absolute command, define the boundaries of a divine action, or describe a state of being, **mḗte** provides a rhetorical structure that underscores the completeness of a prohibition or description. It shows how scripture connects multiple concepts under a single, unifying negative.
TRV