ἀκμήν (akmēn)
akmēn
still
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The adverb akmēn means "even now" or "still," pointing to the present moment with a sense of immediacy. It derives from the noun akmē, which refers to the highest point, tip, or acme of something. By using the accusative case as an adverb, the word captures the idea of being at that very peak or current point in time.
In the New Testament, this word appears only once, in Matthew 15:16. Jesus uses it to challenge his disciples, asking if they are still not understanding what he has just taught about defilement. The term emphasizes the ongoing nature of their confusion at that specific moment, highlighting the gap between hearing a message and truly grasping its meaning.
Translators typically render akmēn as "still" or "even now," preserving the temporal focus on the present. This usage distinguishes it from general words for "now," adding a nuance of persistence or continuation up to this exact point. The word serves as a sharp reminder of the need for immediate spiritual insight rather than delayed comprehension.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word akmēn carries a sense of immediacy, pointing to the very peak of the present moment. In Matthew 15:16, Jesus uses it to ask if his disciples are still not understanding. This highlights how spiritual insight often lags behind what we have heard. It reminds us that true comprehension takes time and grace.
When we feel stuck in confusion, this word offers comfort. It acknowledges that we are right where we are, even if our hearts have not yet caught up with the truth. God meets us in this ongoing process of learning. He does not demand instant perfection but invites steady growth.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Still1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἀκμὴν1×
Key Verses
-
Matthew 15:16
So Jesus said, “Do you also still not understand?
Jesus uses this adverb to highlight the disciples' persistent lack of understanding at that specific moment, emphasizing the gap between hearing and grasping.