Topical Bible: Not A Whit

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Topical Encyclopedia

The phrase "not a whit" is an archaic expression meaning "not at all" or "not in the slightest degree." It is used to convey the idea of complete negation or absence of something. In the context of the Bible, this phrase is not directly found in the Berean Standard Bible but is often associated with the language of older translations, such as the King James Version (KJV).

Biblical Context and Usage

While "not a whit" does not appear verbatim in the BSB, the concept it conveys is present in various passages where complete negation or denial is expressed. For example, in the New Testament, the Apostle Paul often emphasizes the totality of certain spiritual truths or the complete absence of others.

One such instance is found in 2 Corinthians 11:5-6 , where Paul defends his apostleship: "I consider myself in no way inferior to those 'super-apostles.' Although I am unskilled in speech, I am not so in knowledge. Indeed, we have made this clear to you in every way possible." Here, Paul asserts that he is "in no way inferior," which aligns with the meaning of "not a whit."

Theological Implications

The use of expressions like "not a whit" in biblical interpretation underscores the importance of understanding the totality or completeness of certain theological concepts. For instance, the doctrine of salvation by grace through faith alone is often emphasized as being entirely apart from works. Ephesians 2:8-9 states, "For it is by grace you have been saved through faith, and this not from yourselves; it is the gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boast." This passage highlights the complete absence of human effort in the attainment of salvation, akin to saying salvation is "not a whit" dependent on works.

Historical and Linguistic Considerations

The phrase "not a whit" reflects the linguistic style of earlier English translations of the Bible, which often employed terms and expressions that have since fallen out of common usage. Understanding these expressions requires a grasp of the historical context in which they were used. The King James Version, for example, was completed in 1611 and reflects the English language of that period.

Application in Christian Life

In practical terms, the concept of "not a whit" can be applied to the Christian life in areas such as faith, obedience, and reliance on God. Believers are called to trust in God's promises without reservation or doubt. James 1:6 advises, "But he must ask in faith, without doubting, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind." Here, the call is to have faith that is unwavering, or "not a whit" doubting.

In summary, while "not a whit" is not a phrase found in the Berean Standard Bible, its meaning is reflected in the complete negation or affirmation of certain biblical truths. Understanding these concepts is essential for a deeper comprehension of Scripture and its application to the life of faith.

Greek

3367. medeis, medemia, meden -- no one, nothing
... may-den') from me and heis; not even one (man, woman, thing) -- any (man, thing),
no (man), none, not (at all, any man, a whit), nothing, + without delay. ...
//strongsnumbers.com/greek2/3367.htm - 7k

Library

Gold and Silver not Superior in Origin or in Utility to Other ...
... earthly origin and metallurgic operation; in order that, in the estimation of nature,
the substance of gold and of silver may be judged not a whit more noble ...
/.../tertullian/on the apparel of women/chapter v gold and silver not.htm

vincentius of Thibari Said: "We Know that Heretics are Worse than ...
... It is therefore possible that a man may be worse than a heathen, and yet that the
sacrament of Christ may not only be in him, but be not a whit inferior to ...
/.../chapter 44 85 vincentius.htm

Sermon for Whit Sunday
... SERMONS OF THE Reverend Doctor John Tauler XIX Sermon for Whit Sunday. ... of all, He
turned His merciful eyes upon them, and made them fit to receive, not only His ...
/.../xix sermon for whit sunday.htm

But Woe is Thee, Thou Torrent of Human Custom! who Shall Stand ...
... Not one whit more easily are the words learnt for all this vileness; but
by their means the vileness is committed with less shame. ...
/.../augustine/the confessions of saint augustine/chapter xvi but woe is.htm

He Disapproves of the Mode of Educating Youth, and He Points Out ...
... Not one whit more easily are the words learnt for this vileness, but by their
means is the vileness perpetrated with more confidence. ...
/.../the confessions and letters of st/chapter xvi he disapproves of the.htm

Now a Certain Jewish Schoolmaster Named Zachyas Heard Jesus Thus ...
... But the meaning seems to be: You are not a whit better than your neighbours; for
all of you teach what you have named, and you can teach nothing else. ...
/.../unknown/the gospel of pseudo-matthew/chapter 30 now a certain.htm

'A Greater than Jonas'
... Compare it with Paul's, 'Unto me who am less than the least of all saints'"'I am
not a whit behind the chief of the Apostles'"'though I be nothing'"'Not I ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture b/a greater than jonas.htm

Demonstration x. --Of Pastors.
... nigh to the fear of God is like the man who in his thirst draws near to the
water-spring and drinks and is satisfied, and the fountain is not a whit diminished ...
/.../aphrahat/aphrahat select demonstrations/demonstration x of pastors.htm

And to Holy David Indeed it Might More Justly be Said...
... thou by most violent humanity hast compelled them, be laid hold upon by lewd men,
and being deforced be carnally known as women, fear thou not a whit, care for ...
//christianbookshelf.org/augustine/against lying/section 22 and to holy.htm

There is Another Evil of the Day, which I Would were Sufficient ...
... And who is he, O Lord, who is not some whit transported beyond the limits of necessity?
whoever he is, he is a great one; let him make Thy Name great. ...
/.../augustine/the confessions of saint augustine/chapter xxxi there is another.htm