### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **mḗti**, represented by `{{G3385}}`, is a particle used to introduce a question that anticipates a negative answer. Derived from the words for "not" `{{G3361}}` and "what" `{{G5101}}`, its meaning is essentially "whether at all." It appears **15 times** across **14 unique verses** in the Bible. While often not explicitly translated into a single word in English, its presence shapes the entire force of a question, infusing it with doubt, surprise, or a rhetorical challenge.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G3385}}` is frequently employed to make a point through rhetorical questions where the answer is obvious. For example, Jesus uses it in his teachings on false prophets, asking "Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?" [[Matthew 7:16]], a question designed to lead his audience to an undeniable conclusion. It is also used to express astonishment or a dawning realization, as when the amazed crowds witness a miracle and ask, "Is not this the son of David?" [[Matthew 12:23]]. In a different context, it serves as a strong denial, such as when Pilate retorts, "Am I a Jew?" [[John 18:35]].
### Related Words & Concepts
The function of `{{G3385}}` is clarified by understanding its component parts and related terms:
* `{{G3361}}` **mḗ** (not, lest): This is a particle of qualified negation, often used to express a prohibition or to introduce a question that implies a negative answer. It is distinct from `{{G3756}}`, which expresses an absolute denial [[John 3:16]].
* `{{G5101}}` **tís** (who, which, what): An interrogative pronoun used to ask a direct or indirect question. Its combination with `{{G3361}}` creates the specific interrogative force of `{{G3385}}`.
* `{{G3756}}` **ou** (no or not): This is the absolute negative particle. While `{{G3361}}` suggests a potential or conditional negative, `{{G3756}}` states a direct and factual one, as in "Man shall not live by bread alone" [[Matthew 4:4]].
* `{{G2228}}` **ḗ** (or, than): A disjunctive particle often used to present alternatives within a question introduced by `{{G3385}}`, such as whether a candle is put under a bushel **or** under a bed [[Mark 4:21]].
### Theological Significance
The rhetorical and theological weight of `{{G3385}}` lies in its ability to guide thought and reveal character.
* **Teaching through Inescapable Logic:** Jesus uses it to frame parables and lessons in a way that forces listeners to reach the intended conclusion themselves. In asking, "Can the blind lead the blind?" [[Luke 6:39]], the answer is a self-evident "no," making the subsequent point about falling into the ditch more powerful.
* **Expressing a Shift toward Faith:** The particle captures the tension between doubt and belief. The woman at the well, amazed by Jesus, asks, "is not this the Christ?" [[John 4:29]], a question that voices her uncertainty while leaning toward a positive conclusion. The disciples, in their sorrow, ask one by one, "Is it I?" [[Mark 14:19]], desperately hoping the answer is no.
* **Clarifying Identity and Purpose:** It is used to draw sharp contrasts. In Peter's confession, it is not used, but the crowd's uncertain question, "Is not this the son of David?" [[Matthew 12:23]], stands in contrast to firm belief. Paul uses it to defend his ministry, asking if he used **lightness** `{{G1644}}` or acted according to the **flesh** `{{G4561}}`, implying that he did not [[2 Corinthians 1:17]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3385}}` is more than a simple negative; it is a sophisticated rhetorical tool. Though it appears only a handful of times, its usage is significant. By framing questions that imply their own answers, it serves to challenge, convict, and guide the reader. It reveals the speaker's state of mind, whether it be the self-evident certainty of Jesus's teachings, the dawning hope of those witnessing his miracles, or the sorrowful denial of his disciples.
TRV