Lexical Summary ei de me(ge): "otherwise," "if not," "but if not" Original Word: εἰ δὲ μήγε Strong's Exhaustive Concordance or else, if not, otherwise. From ei, de, and me (sometimes with ge added); but if not -- (or) else, if (not, otherwise), otherwise. see GREEK ei see GREEK de see GREEK me see GREEK ge Topical Lexicon Overview The particle rendered “not even” or “at least not” appears eight times in the New Testament. Each usage heightens contrast, sharpens warning, or marks the boundary of acceptable conduct, underscoring the Lord’s call to wholehearted devotion. Pattern of Scriptural Usage The particle consistently serves two functions: 1. Intensifying a command or prohibition so that the audience cannot mistake the line God draws. In the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 6:1) “Beware of practicing your righteousness before men to be seen by them; otherwise you have no reward from your Father in heaven.” The particle seals the warning: any act tainted by showmanship forfeits reward—“not even” a partial credit remains. The verse presses believers toward secret, God-focused piety. Parables of New and Old (Matthew 9:17; Luke 5:36-37) “No one puts new wine into old wineskins,” and “no one tears a patch from a new garment and sews it on an old one.” The particle stresses absolute incompatibility: the Gospel cannot be mixed with self-righteous traditions. Christ’s kingdom introduces realities that render the old forms obsolete; to attempt a blend is to guarantee spiritual rupture. Peace in Evangelism (Luke 10:6) “If a man of peace is there, your peace will rest on him; if not, it will return to you.” Here the particle delineates two mutually exclusive outcomes. The messenger’s peace is never wasted—either it abides or it circles back—assuring disciples that rejection does not nullify their mission. Cultivating Fruitfulness (Luke 13:9) “If it bears fruit next year, fine; if not, you may cut it down.” The vineyard parable places the particle at the decisive fork: ongoing barrenness is “not even” tolerable beyond God’s appointed patience. Grace has limits; unfruitfulness eventually invites judgment. Counting the Cost (Luke 14:32) “While the other is still far away, he sends a delegation and asks terms of peace.” The particle signals the futility of a half-built or ill-planned endeavor. Discipleship demands total surrender; “not even” a king dares face battle unprepared. Paul’s Defense of Apostolic Authority (2 Corinthians 11:16) “I say again, let no one take me for a fool. But even if you do, receive me as a fool, so that I too may boast a little.” The particle strengthens Paul’s irony. Should the Corinthians refuse to recognize his authentic apostleship, his forced “boasting” will expose the folly of their standards. Theological and Ministry Implications 1. Authenticity before God: External religion “not even” marginally pleases the Father (Matthew 6:1). Historical Reception Early patristic commentators (e.g., Chrysostom on Matthew 6) saw the particle’s emphatic negation as a shield against pharisaic hypocrisy. Reformers later highlighted its role in separating Gospel grace from legalistic additions. Throughout church history, translators have worked to preserve its sharp edge, ensuring readers feel the disallowance it conveys. Practical Application for Believers Today • Examine motives in service; hidden pride forfeits reward. Forms and Transliterations ει μή μη¦γε μή¦γε me mē me¦ge mē¦ge mḗ¦ge mege mēgeLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel TextsEnglishman's Concordance Matthew 6:1 PrtclGRK: εἰ δὲ μή¦γε μισθὸν οὐκ KJV: of them: otherwise ye have INT: if moreover lest reward no Matthew 9:17 Prtcl Luke 5:36 Prtcl Luke 5:37 Prtcl Luke 10:6 Prtcl Luke 13:9 Prtcl Luke 14:32 Prtcl 2 Corinthians 11:16 Prtcl |
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