ἵνα μή
hína mḗ
G3363
SILEX Entry
Definition
A conjunctional phrase combining a purpose clause marker with a negation: primarily 'in order that not,' denoting a negative purpose or intended prevention. Functionally introduces a subordinate clause that expresses a goal or result to be avoided. Depending on context, it can render as 'so that not,' 'lest,' or 'in order that [something] may not.' Frequently employed to link main verbs with prohibited outcomes, especially following verbs of caution, command, or fear.
Semantic Range
so that not, in order that not, lest, in order to avoid, for fear that
Root / Etymology
Compound of ἵνα (purpose/result marker, 'in order that') and μή (particle of negation, 'not')—i.e., 'in order that not.' No idiomatic etymological development beyond the combination.
Historical & Contextual Notes
In classical and Koine Greek, ἵνα μή regularly introduces negative purpose clauses, especially after verbs of fearing (φοβέομαι), warning, or a command to avoid. It contrasts with ἵνα alone, which states positive purpose/result ('so that'), while ἵνα μή denotes a negated aim or danger to be averted ('lest'). Unlike οὐ, μή is the standard form of negation in non-indicative moods (subjunctive, optative) frequently found in these contexts. English Bible translations typically render ἵνα μή as 'lest' or 'so that not,' though nuance can be lost when simply translated as 'not.' This phrase remained stable from Classical through Hellenistic and New Testament Greek but is most characteristic of purpose- or result-clauses expressing concerns or warnings in Koine texts.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
i.e. ἵνα and μή; in order (or so) that not:--albeit not, lest, that, no(-t, (-thing)).
Root Family
ἵνα-, μη- (hína mḗ) — to intend, to result, not
Word Forms
0 distinct forms
No word forms found for this Strong's number.
Occurrences in Scripture
0 occurrences
No occurrences found.