Original Word: εἰ μή
Part of Speech: Conjunction
Transliteration: ei mé
Pronunciation: ay may
Phonetic Spelling: (i may)
Definition: except, unless, if not
Meaning: if not

but, except that, if not, save only.

From ei and me; if not -- but, except (that), if not, more than, save (only) that, saving, till.

see GREEK ei

see GREEK me

1508 ei mḗ (from 1487 /ei, "if" and 3361 /mḗ, "not") – properly, if not (unless). 1508 (ei mḗ) views (assumes as) what precedes is fact, and extends it to its negative possibility or exception meaning "otherwise, unless."

Word Origin
from ei and mé
Definition
if not
NASB Translation
except (40), except* (1), more than (1), unless (1).

Word Origin: A combination of εἰ (ei), a primary particle of conditionality, and μή (mē), a primary particle of qualified negation.

Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: The concept of exception or conditionality in Hebrew is often expressed with words like בִּלְתִּי (bilti, Strong's H1115) or אִם־לֹא (im-lo, Strong's H518 combined with H3808), which can convey similar meanings of "except" or "unless" in the Hebrew Scriptures.

Usage: This phrase is frequently used in the New Testament to denote exceptions or conditions. It appears in various contexts, often to clarify or limit a statement.

Context: The Greek phrase "εἰ μή" is a critical component in understanding conditional statements and exceptions within the New Testament. It serves to introduce a contrast or an exception to what has been previously stated. This phrase is often found in the teachings of Jesus, the writings of Paul, and other New Testament authors to emphasize the necessity of a condition being met or to highlight an exception to a general rule.

For example, in Matthew 12:4, Jesus refers to the actions of David: "He entered the house of God and ate the consecrated bread, which was not lawful for him or for those with him to eat, except for the priests alone." Here, "εἰ μή" introduces the exception to the general prohibition against eating the consecrated bread.

In John 3:3, Jesus uses "εἰ μή" to emphasize the necessity of being born again: "Truly, truly, I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again." This highlights the indispensable condition for entering the kingdom of God.

The phrase is also used in logical arguments, as seen in Romans 10:15: "And how can they preach unless they are sent?" Here, "εἰ μή" underscores the necessity of being sent in order to preach effectively.

Understanding "εἰ μή" is essential for interpreting the New Testament accurately, as it often marks the boundary between what is generally true and what is true under specific conditions.

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