πλήν (plēn)
plēn
but/however
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 32 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The Greek word plēn functions as a versatile connector, typically translated as "but," "however," or "except." In its most common role as an adverb, it introduces a clause that qualifies or contrasts with what came before, serving the same purpose as words like alla or de. This usage appears frequently in the Gospels, such as when Jesus notes that Tyre and Sidon would have repented if they had seen his miracles, "but" it will be more bearable for them on judgment day than for Capernaum (Matthew 11:22).
Plēn also operates as a preposition followed by the genitive case, meaning "except" or "save." In this construction, it excludes specific items from a general statement. For instance, in Acts 8:1, the text describes Saul approving of Stephen’s execution, and "except for" the disciples, everyone was scattered throughout Judea and Samaria. This prepositional use highlights a clear boundary or limitation within a broader context.
Historical sources indicate that plēn was not merely a literary device but the regular word in everyday speech during the New Testament period. Its prevalence in the Vulgar Greek of the time suggests it was a natural way for speakers to introduce exceptions or gentle corrections. Translators often render it as "but nevertheless" or "except," depending on whether it stands alone or pairs with words like hoti ("that"), as seen in Philippians 1:18.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word plēn acts as a gentle pivot in Scripture, shifting our focus from what is difficult to what is true. It often appears when Jesus or the apostles acknowledge a hard reality before pointing toward God’s enduring promise. For instance, in Luke 10:20, the disciples might have rejoiced in their spiritual power, but plēn redirects them to the greater joy of having their names written in heaven.
This connector teaches us that our circumstances do not define our standing with God. Even when we face opposition or confusion, as seen in Acts 20:23 where Paul expects affliction, plēn reminds us that the Holy Spirit’s testimony remains constant. It invites us to hold two truths at once: the present struggle and the future hope.
In your own life, this word offers a pattern for prayer and perspective. Like Jesus in Gethsemane (Luke 22:42), we can acknowledge our fear or desire while still submitting to God’s will. Plēn does not erase pain; it frames it within the larger story of God’s faithfulness, encouraging us to look beyond immediate difficulties.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 32 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- But11×
- but4×
- except3×
- Nevertheless3×
- only2×
- Yet2×
- However2×
- yet1×
- besides1×
- Only1×
- Furthermore1×
- But [of]1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- πλὴν30×
- Πλὴν2×
Key Verses
-
Luke 10:20
Nevertheless, don’t rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.”
The word redirects the disciples from rejoicing in spiritual power to the deeper joy of their eternal security in heaven.
-
Matthew 26:39
He went forward a little, fell on his face, and prayed, saying, “My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass away from me; nevertheless, not what I desire, but what you desire.”
It marks Jesus’ submission to the Father’s will, contrasting his human desire with divine purpose.
-
Acts 8:1
Saul was consenting to his death. A great persecution arose against the assembly which was in Jerusalem in that day. They were all scattered abroad throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria, except for the apostles.
As a preposition meaning 'except,' it highlights that the apostles remained in Jerusalem while others scattered during persecution.
-
Luke 22:42
saying, “Father, if you are willing, remove this cup from me. Nevertheless, not my will, but yours, be done.”
It separates Jesus’ personal request from his ultimate obedience, emphasizing the priority of God’s will.
-
Matthew 11:22
But I tell you, it will be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon on the day of judgment than for you.
It introduces a contrast in judgment severity, showing that greater revelation brings greater responsibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Greek word plēn mean?
How is plēn different from alla?
Where does plēn appear most often?
Why is plēn important for understanding Jesus’ prayers?
Every Occurrence (32 verses across 9 books)
Matthew 5 verses
But I tell you, it will be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon on the day of judgment than for you.
Matthew 11:24But I tell you that it will be more tolerable for the land of Sodom on the day of judgment, than for you.”
Matthew 18:7“Woe to the world because of occasions of stumbling! For it must be that the occasions come, but woe to that person…
Matthew 26:39He went forward a little, fell on his face, and prayed, saying, “My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass away…
Matthew 26:64Jesus said to him, “You have said so. Nevertheless, I tell you, after this you will see the Son of Man sitting at the…