### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **mḗtis**, represented by `{{G3387}}`, is an interrogative particle primarily meaning **whether any**. It is often unexpressed in translation except through the interrogative form of the sentence. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses**, where it functions to pose critical questions.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical occurrences, `{{G3387}}` is used to frame questions that reveal doubt, concern, or a lack of understanding. The Pharisees use it to challenge Jesus's authority, asking rhetorically if **any** of the rulers have believed on Him [[John 7:48]]. In a post-resurrection appearance, Jesus asks his disciples, "have ye **any** meat?" to highlight their need before providing for them [[John 21:5]]. A similar theme appears when the disciples wonder if **any** man has brought Jesus something to eat, missing the spiritual nature of his satisfaction [[John 4:33]]. Paul also uses it in a rhetorical question to defend his ministry's integrity, asking if Titus made a gain of the Corinthians [[2 Corinthians 12:18]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several words are contextually linked to `{{G3387}}` through the questions it forms:
* `{{G4100}}` **pisteúō** (to have faith... believe): This word is central to the question posed by the Pharisees about whether **any** of the leadership had **believed** in Jesus [[John 7:48]].
* `{{G4122}}` **pleonektéō** (to be covetous... make a gain): Paul directly pairs this with `{{G3387}}` to ask if Titus had **made a gain** from the Corinthians, questioning any motive of greed [[2 Corinthians 12:18]].
* `{{G5315}}` **phágō** (to eat): This is linked to questions of physical provision, as when the disciples wonder if someone brought Jesus anything to **eat** [[John 4:33]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3387}}` comes from the specific questions it is used to ask.
* **Probing Unbelief:** Its use in [[John 7:48]] highlights the hardened hearts of the religious leaders. Their question, "Have **any**... believed?" is intended to discredit Jesus by implying that no person of standing would follow him.
* **Establishing Divine Provision:** Jesus's question in [[John 21:5]], "have ye **any** meat?", serves to confirm the disciples' lack before He miraculously provides for them. Similarly, the disciples' question in [[John 4:33]] about whether **any** man brought food contrasts their physical concerns with Jesus's spiritual nourishment.
* **Vindicating Ministry:** In [[2 Corinthians 12:18]], Paul's rhetorical question is a defense of his and his companions' character. By asking if Titus took advantage of the church, he reinforces the principle that their service was not for financial gain.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3387}}` is more than a simple grammatical particle. It serves as a crucial tool for framing questions that drive the biblical narrative. Whether used to challenge belief, highlight human need, or defend ministerial integrity, **mḗtis** demonstrates how interrogative language can introduce profound theological themes. It shows that even a small, sometimes untranslated word can be pivotal in shaping the meaning of a passage.
TRV