ναί (nai)
nai
yes
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 30 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The particle naí serves as a strong affirmation in Greek, translating to "yes," "yea," or "truly." It is a primary word used to confirm a statement or answer a question with certainty. In the New Testament, it appears frequently in the Gospels and Pauline letters, often standing alone to give a decisive reply.
Its usage extends beyond simple agreement. Jesus employs it for emphasis, such as when He confirms that John the Baptist is the prophesied messenger (Matthew 11:9). It also marks solemn declarations, like the church’s cry in Revelation, "Amen. Even so, come" (Revelation 22:20). Paul uses it to describe God’s faithfulness, noting that all of God’s promises find their "Yes" in Christ (2 Corinthians 1:20).
Translators sometimes render it as "verily" or "even so" to capture its weight. The repetition of the word, as seen in James 5:12 ("let your yes be yes"), underscores the importance of integrity in speech. This particle anchors Christian dialogue in truth and reliability.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word nai is a simple but powerful affirmation. It means 'yes,' and it carries the weight of truth. In our daily lives, we often complicate communication with hesitation or half-truths. This Greek particle reminds us that integrity begins with honest speech. When we say yes, let it mean yes.
This word appears in moments of deep conviction and simple agreement. Jesus used it to confirm John the Baptist’s role and to affirm God’s will. Paul used it to describe how every promise of God finds its fulfillment in Christ. For you, this is an encouragement to speak with clarity and trust. Your words can reflect the reliability of God Himself.
When life feels uncertain, remember that God’s yes to us is firm. In Christ, we have a sure foundation. Let your own speech be grounded in that same truth, bringing peace to those around you.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 30 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Yes23×
- yes4×
- Yes.3×
- Yes,3×
- [be] yes1×
- Yes;1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ναὶ26×
- ναί.3×
- ναί,3×
- ναί2×
- ναί·1×
Key Verses
-
Matthew 5:37
But let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes’ and your ‘No’ be ‘No.’ Whatever is more than these is of the evil one.
Jesus uses this word to establish a standard of integrity where simple agreement is sufficient and extra oaths are unnecessary.
-
II Corinthians 1:20
For however many are the promises of God, in him is the “Yes.” Therefore also through him is the “Amen”, to the glory of God through us.
Paul employs this term to declare that all of God’s promises find their definitive confirmation and fulfillment in Christ.
-
John 21:15
So when they had eaten their breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of Jonah, do you love me more than these?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I have affection for you.” He said to him, “Feed my lambs.”
Peter uses this affirmation to respond to Jesus’ question about love, showing how honest confession restores relationship.
-
Matthew 11:9
But why did you go out? To see a prophet? Yes, I tell you, and much more than a prophet.
Jesus uses this word emphatically to confirm that John the Baptist is indeed the prophesied messenger of God.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Greek word nai mean?
How is nai different from other Greek words for yes?
Where does this word appear most often?
Every Occurrence (30 verses across 11 books)
Matthew 8 verses
But let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes’ and your ‘No’ be ‘No.’ Whatever is more than these is of the evil one.
Matthew 9:28When he had come into the house, the blind men came to him. Jesus said to them, “Do you believe that I am able to do…
Matthew 11:9But why did you go out? To see a prophet? Yes, I tell you, and much more than a prophet.
Matthew 11:26Yes, Father, for so it was well-pleasing in your sight.
Matthew 13:51Jesus said to them, “Have you understood all these things?” They answered him, “Yes, Lord.”
Matthew 15:27But she said, “Yes, Lord, but even the dogs eat the crumbs which fall from their masters’ table.”
Matthew 17:25He said, “Yes.” When he came into the house, Jesus anticipated him, saying, “What do you think, Simon? From whom do the…
Matthew 21:16and said to him, “Do you hear what these are saying?” Jesus said to them, “Yes. Did you never read, ‘Out of the mouth…