The Greek preposition aneu means 'without,' 'apart from,' or 'independent of.' It governs the genitive case and expresses absence or independence from something. Though appearing only three times in the New Testament (Matthew 10:29; 1 Peter 3:1; 4:9), each occurrence carries notable theological weight.
In Matthew 10:29, Jesus states that not a single sparrow falls 'apart from (aneu) your Father.' This declares divine providence at the most granular level — the Father's knowledge and involvement extends to the most insignificant events.
1 Peter 3:1 uses aneu practically: wives may win unbelieving husbands 'without a word' — through conduct rather than argumentation. The principle carries broad application: transformation often comes through the wordless witness of a changed life.