### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word μοῦ (moû, `{{G3450}}`) is the genitive singular form of the first-person personal pronoun, meaning "of me," "my," or "mine." It functions primarily to denote possession, origin, relationship, or a subjective genitive. Grammatically, μοῦ is considered the enclitic or unaccented form, typically used when the pronoun is not meant to be emphatic. Its counterpart, ἐμοῦ (emou, `{{G1700}}`), is the accented, emphatic form, employed when the speaker wishes to draw particular attention to the "me" or "my." Despite its grammatical simplicity, μοῦ is fundamental to expressing personal connection and belonging in the New Testament.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
As a ubiquitous personal pronoun, μοῦ appears thousands of times throughout the New Testament, reflecting its essential role in communication. Its usage varies widely but consistently ties a noun or concept back to the speaker.
Examples illustrating its primary functions:
* **Possession:** When Jesus speaks of "my Father" (ὁ Πατήρ μου in [[Matthew 11:27]], [[John 5:17]]), it underscores His unique and intimate relationship with God. Similarly, "my words" (οἱ λόγοι μου in [[Matthew 7:24]]) refers to the teachings that originate from Him and are uniquely His. The phrase "my sheep" (τὰ πρόβατά μου in [[John 10:27]]) denotes those who belong to Him and are under His care.
* **Origin or Source:** In statements like "My teaching is not mine but His who sent me" (ἡ ἐμὴ διδαχὴ οὐκ ἔστιν ἐμὴ ἀλλὰ τοῦ πέμψαντός με in [[John 7:16]]), μοῦ ("mine") indicates the source of the teaching. When Jesus offers "my peace" (τὴν εἰρήνην τὴν ἐμήν in [[John 14:27]]), it signifies a peace that originates from Him, distinct from worldly peace.
* **Relationship:** "My disciples" (οἱ μαθηταί μου in [[John 13:35]]) identifies those who are in a specific, personal relationship with Jesus.
* **Subjective Genitive:** "My joy" (ἡ χαρὰ ἡ ἐμή in [[John 15:11]]) refers to the joy that Christ possesses and desires to impart to His followers.
In the Gospels, particularly within the discourse of Jesus, the seemingly simple μοῦ takes on profound theological weight, often pointing to His divine nature, unique authority, and unparalleled relationship with the Father.
### Related Words & Concepts
μοῦ is one form within the paradigm of the first-person singular pronoun. Other related forms include:
* ἐγώ (egō, `{{G1473}}`): The nominative singular, meaning "I."
* ἐμοῦ (emou, `{{G1700}}`): The emphatic genitive singular, also meaning "of me," "my," or "mine." The distinction from μοῦ lies in emphasis.
* ἐμοί (emoi, `{{G1698}}`): The dative singular, meaning "to me" or "for me."
* ἐμέ (eme, `{{G1691}}`): The accusative singular, meaning "me."
Beyond grammatical forms, μοῦ connects to broader concepts of:
* **Possession and Belonging:** It articulates ownership, whether literal or relational, establishing who or what belongs to the speaker.
* **Identity:** When used by Jesus, μοῦ often reinforces His unique identity as the Son of God ("my Father," "my kingdom").
* **Intimacy:** The use of a personal possessive pronoun signifies a close, often covenantal or familial, relationship.
### Theological Significance
The theological import of μοῦ is most profoundly seen in the words of Jesus Christ.
* **Christological Revelation:** Jesus' frequent use of "my Father" is a foundational Christological statement, asserting His unique, unparalleled filial relationship with God. This is not merely a human adoption but an eternal, divine sonship. Similarly, "my words," "my teaching," and "my authority" underscore His divine origin and absolute prerogative. Even phrases like "my hour" ([[John 2:4]], [[John 13:1]]) speak to His sovereign control over His redemptive mission.
* **Redemptive Identity:** When Jesus refers to "my blood" ([[Matthew 26:28]]) or "my life" given for the sheep ([[John 10:15]]), μοῦ highlights the personal, sacrificial nature of His atonement. It is *His* life, *His* blood, uniquely offered for the salvation of humanity.
* **Discipleship and Relationship with God:** For believers, μοῦ takes on significance in their personal relationship with God. Thomas's confession, "My Lord and my God!" (Ὁ Κύριός μου καὶ ὁ Θεός μου! in [[John 20:28]]), illustrates the deeply personal appropriation of Christ's identity. Through Christ, believers can also say "my Father" (Πατήρ μου), reflecting their adoption into God's family and participation in the divine-human covenant. This pronoun also signifies the believer's personal commitment and surrender of "my will" or "my life" to God's purposes.
### Summary
μοῦ (moû, `{{G3450}}`) is the common, non-emphatic genitive singular of the first-person pronoun, meaning "of me," "my," or "mine." While grammatically simple, it is a powerful indicator of possession, origin, and relationship. Its extensive use in the New Testament, particularly by Jesus, carries immense theological weight. In Christ's mouth, μοῦ unveils His unique divine identity, His intimate relationship with God the Father, and the personal nature of His redemptive work. For believers, it signifies a personal, intimate relationship with God through Christ, and the personal commitment of faith and surrender. Thus, μοῦ is far more than a mere pronoun; it is a key linguistic element that undergirds profound biblical truths about God, Christ, and the believer's place within the divine economy.
TRV