μήτι (mēti)
mēti
surely not
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 18 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The particle mēti functions as an interrogative marker that anticipates a negative response, effectively translating to "surely not" or "you don't mean to say...?" In the Gospels, it often appears in moments of shock or disbelief, such as when the disciples ask if Jesus is truly leaving them (John 16:32) or when Peter questions why Judas would betray him with a kiss (Matthew 26:49). It signals that the speaker finds the preceding statement difficult to accept.
Its structure combines a negative particle with an enclitic question marker, creating a nuance distinct from simple yes-no questions. The sources note its use in hesitant inquiries, where it softens the challenge, as seen when the Samaritan woman asks if Jesus is greater than Jacob (John 4:12). Translators typically render it as "surely not" or "is it possible," preserving the element of surprise inherent in the original Greek.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word mēti carries a weight of honest surprise, often translating to "surely not." It appears when listeners struggle to reconcile what they have just heard with their understanding of reality. This linguistic nuance invites us to bring our genuine confusion to God rather than hiding it behind polite silence. When faith feels difficult, admitting shock is a valid form of prayer.
In moments of doubt, this particle reminds us that Jesus welcomes scrutiny. He does not demand blind acceptance but responds to sincere questions with patience and clarity. Whether you are grappling with a hard teaching or a confusing circumstance, your honest inquiry is met with grace. This word encourages a faith that is robust enough to handle uncertainty without breaking.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 18 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- surely not ever15×
- surely even3×
- Surely not ever1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- μήτι19×
Key Verses
-
Matthew 26:22
They were exceedingly sorrowful, and each began to ask him, “It isn’t me, is it, Lord?”
The disciples use this structure to express their deep sorrow and disbelief at the idea that one of them would betray Jesus, highlighting their personal investment in his warning.
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John 18:35
Pilate answered, “I’m not a Jew, am I? Your own nation and the chief priests delivered you to me. What have you done?”
Pilate employs this interrogative form to distance himself from Jewish political expectations, revealing his surprise at being placed in the role of judge over Jesus.
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II Corinthians 1:17
When I therefore planned this, did I show fickleness? Or the things that I plan, do I plan according to the flesh, that with me there should be the “Yes, yes” and the “No, no?”
Paul uses this rhetorical question to defend his integrity, asserting that his plans were not driven by worldly fickleness but by consistent truthfulness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Greek word mēti mean?
How is mēti different from other Greek question words?
Where does this word appear in the New Testament?
Every Occurrence (18 verses across 8 books)
Matthew 4 verses
By their fruits you will know them. Do you gather grapes from thorns or figs from thistles?
Matthew 12:23All the multitudes were amazed, and said, “Can this be the son of David?”
Matthew 26:22They were exceedingly sorrowful, and each began to ask him, “It isn’t me, is it, Lord?”
Matthew 26:25Judas, who betrayed him, answered, “It isn’t me, is it, Rabbi?” He said to him, “You said it.”