neuter of μόνος as adverb; merely:--alone, but, only.
Transliteration:mónon
Pronunciation:mon'-on
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
μόνον (mónon, `{{G3440}}`) is the neuter accusative singular form of the adjective μόνος (monos, `{{G3441}}`), used adverbially. Its core meaning centers on exclusivity, singularity, and limitation. As an adverb, it conveys "only," "merely," "but," "alone," or "exclusively." It functions to restrict the scope of a statement, emphasizing that nothing else or no one else is included, often serving as an emphatic particle. It highlights that a particular action, condition, or entity is unique or singular in its context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
μόνον appears frequently in the New Testament, consistently emphasizing a singular condition, exclusive truth, or limited scope.
* In [[Matthew 4:4]], Jesus declares, "Man shall not live by bread μόνον (alone), but by every word that comes from the mouth of God." Here, μόνον underscores the insufficiency of physical sustenance without spiritual nourishment, emphasizing the essential role of God's word.
* The centurion's profound faith is captured in [[Matthew 8:8]]: "Speak the word μόνον (only), and my servant will be healed." This usage highlights the centurion's conviction in Jesus' authoritative word, requiring no physical presence or additional action.
* Paul uses μόνον to articulate a foundational principle of justification in [[Romans 3:28]]: "For we hold that one is justified by faith μόνον (alone) apart from works of the law." This is a pivotal statement for the doctrine of *sola fide*, asserting the exclusive role of faith in salvation.
* In [[Galatians 6:12]], μόνον reveals the self-serving motivation of certain individuals: "It is μόνον (only) that they may not be persecuted for the cross of Christ." Here, it points to a singular, self-preserving aim.
* The word can also indicate a partial understanding or limited knowledge, as seen in [[Acts 18:25]], where Apollos "knew μόνον (only) the baptism of John," implying an incomplete grasp of Christian truth.
* In [[Philippians 1:27]], Paul exhorts believers: "μόνον (Only) let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ." Here, μόνον acts as an emphatic "only," stressing the singular imperative of living consistently with their calling.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **μόνος (monos, `{{G3441}}`):** The adjectival root from which μόνον is derived. Meaning "alone, solitary, unique," μόνος provides the conceptual foundation for μόνον's emphasis on singularity and exclusivity.
* **πᾶς (pas, `{{G3956}}`):** "All, every." This word often stands in semantic contrast to μόνον, as μόνον restricts while πᾶς expands, highlighting the specific limitations or scope implied by μόνον.
* **οὐδείς (oudeis, `{{G3762}}`):** "No one, nothing." Like μόνον, this word can also highlight exclusivity, though from a negative perspective ("no one else but...").
* **Exclusivity:** The core concept conveyed by μόνον, indicating that one thing is true to the exclusion of others. This is vital in understanding doctrines like the uniqueness of Christ or the singular means of salvation.
* **Sufficiency:** Often, μόνον points to the sufficiency of a single element, such as Christ's sacrifice, God's word, or faith, for a particular outcome.
* **Limitation/Restriction:** The word inherently limits the scope of a statement, drawing attention to a specific condition or qualification.
### Theological Significance
The use of μόνον frequently carries profound theological weight, particularly in the articulation of doctrines related to salvation, Christology, and divine authority.
* **Soteriology (Doctrine of Salvation):** Its appearance in phrases like "justified by faith μόνον" ([[Romans 3:28]]) is foundational to the Protestant understanding of *sola fide* (faith alone) as the means of salvation. This emphasizes that human works, merit, or rituals are explicitly excluded as a basis for justification before God, underscoring the singular efficacy of faith in Christ.
* **Christology (Doctrine of Christ):** When applied to Christ, μόνον can underscore His unique and exclusive role as Savior and Lord. The centurion's faith in Jesus' word μόνον ([[Matthew 8:8]]) implicitly acknowledges Christ's divine authority and power, highlighting His singular ability to heal and command.
* **Divine Sovereignty and Efficacy:** The word implicitly affirms God's singular authority and power. When God's word μόνον is sufficient for life or healing, it speaks to His absolute efficacy and the all-encompassing power of His decrees.
* **Human Insufficiency:** Conversely, μόνον often highlights the insufficiency of human effort, wisdom, or resources apart from God's intervention or provision. Man cannot live by bread μόνον ([[Matthew 4:4]]) illustrates the need for a divine component beyond the physical.
* **Singular Truth:** In various contexts, μόνον points to a singular, non-negotiable truth, such as the necessity of spiritual life or the exclusive path to God, emphasizing a divine principle that stands alone in its truthfulness or importance.
### Summary
μόνον (mónon, `{{G3440}}`) is a Greek adverb derived from μόνος (monos, `{{G3441}}`), conveying the meaning of "only," "merely," "alone," or "exclusively." It functions to limit or restrict the scope of a statement, emphasizing a singular element to the exclusion of others. Biblically, it is crucial in defining core theological concepts such as *sola fide* (justification by faith alone) in [[Romans 3:28]], highlighting the unique efficacy of God's word ([[Matthew 4:4]], [[Matthew 8:8]]), and underscoring exclusive motivations or conditions ([[Galatians 6:12]]). Its consistent usage points to exclusivity, sufficiency, and often, the singular importance of divine action or truth in contrast to human endeavor. The word thus serves as a powerful linguistic tool for conveying theological precision and emphasizing foundational doctrines in the New Testament.
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