### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb διαδίδωμι (diadídōmi, `{{G1239}}`) is a compound word formed from the preposition διά (dia), meaning "through," "across," or "among," and the verb δίδωμι (didōmi, `{{G1325}}`), meaning "to give." This etymological foundation immediately suggests a nuance beyond simple giving: it implies a distribution *throughout* a group or a delivery *over* to a successor. The core meaning thus encompasses the act of "dealing out" or "dividing among" multiple recipients, emphasizing the widespread nature of the giving. It can also denote the transmission or "handing over" of something, such as authority or possessions, from one person to another in succession. The semantic range therefore extends from the physical distribution of goods to the more abstract transfer of responsibility.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
διαδίδωμι appears in several significant New Testament contexts, consistently highlighting its distributive or transmissive aspect:
* **Miraculous Feeding Narratives:** In [[John 6:11]], Jesus "distributed" (διέδωκεν) the bread and fish to the gathered crowds, and again in [[John 6:19]] (though some manuscripts read δίδωμι), emphasizing the orderly and widespread provision to the multitude. This usage underscores divine provision mediated through Christ, ensuring that all receive.
* **Early Church Communal Life:** [[Acts 4:35]] describes how the apostles "distributed" (διεδίδετο) resources to each person as they had need, embodying the communal care and radical generosity characteristic of the early church. Similarly, [[Acts 6:1]] mentions the daily "distribution" (διακονία) of food, prompting the appointment of the seven deacons. This highlights the practical outworking of Christian fellowship and the challenge of equitable distribution within a growing community.
* **Ethical Instruction:** In [[Luke 18:22]], Jesus instructs the rich ruler to "distribute" (διάδος) his possessions to the poor, underscoring a radical call to divestment and generosity as a pathway to true discipleship. This is a direct command to effect a widespread giving.
* **Parable of the Stronger Man:** [[Luke 11:22]] uses διαδίδωμι to describe a stronger man who, having overcome a weaker one, "distributes" (διαδίδωσιν) his spoils. Here, the word signifies the division and allocation of conquered goods.
* **Judicial/Political Context:** In [[John 19:12]], Pilate is said to have been "delivering over" (παρεδίδου) Jesus to the Jews, though some manuscripts here use διαδίδωμι (διεδίδου), which would imply a formal handing over or distribution of judgment. The dominant textual tradition, however, is παραδίδωμι (paradidōmi, `{{G3860}}`), which means "to hand over" or "betray." Therefore, relying solely on G1239 for this verse is less certain.
Across these contexts, διαδίδωμι consistently points to an intentional, often systematic, act of giving or transferring that ensures wide access or proper succession.
### Related Words & Concepts
διαδίδωμι is closely related to, yet distinct from, several other Greek terms:
* δίδωμι (didōmi, `{{G1325}}`): The base verb meaning "to give." διαδίδωμι specifies the manner of giving as distribution or transmission, often implying a more expansive or sequential action than a simple one-time gift.
* μερίζω (merizō, `{{G3307}}`): To divide or apportion. While διαδίδωμι focuses on the act of giving *out*, μερίζω emphasizes the act of *dividing* into parts. The concepts often overlap, as division precedes distribution.
* μοιράζω (moirazō, `{{G3308}}`): To divide or share out, often implying a portion or lot. Similar to μερίζω in its focus on division, but can also convey the act of sharing.
* κοινωνέω (koinoneō, `{{G2841}}`): To share, participate, or have fellowship. This verb describes the communal spirit that often motivates the act of διαδίδωμι in the early church, where sharing of resources was a tangible expression of *koinonia*.
* Concepts associated with διαδίδωμι include stewardship, generosity, provision, communal care, and the equitable sharing of resources within a community.
### Theological Significance
The use of διαδίδωμι carries significant theological weight, particularly in its portrayal of divine provision and human responsibility.
First, in the feeding narratives, the act of Jesus distributing the bread and fish highlights God's abundant provision for His people. It is not merely a supply, but a widespread and sufficient distribution, ensuring that all are fed. This foreshadows the spiritual nourishment provided through Christ, particularly in the Eucharist, where the "bread of life" is distributed to believers.
Second, in the context of the early church, διαδίδωμι underscores the practical outworking of Christian love and unity. The systematic distribution of resources to those in need (e.g., [[Acts 4:35]]) was not merely charity but a radical embodiment of the Kingdom of God, challenging societal norms of wealth accumulation. It demonstrates a commitment to social justice and the welfare of all members, reflecting the very nature of God as a generous provider. This communal sharing was a powerful witness to the transformative power of the Gospel.
Third, Jesus' command to the rich ruler to "distribute" his wealth to the poor ([[Luke 18:22]]) reveals the ethical imperative of διαδίδωμι. It challenges believers to view their possessions not as solely their own, but as resources to be managed and distributed for the good of others, especially the vulnerable. This aligns with the broader biblical theme of generosity and the dangers of materialism.
### Summary
In essence, διαδίδωμι (diadídōmi, `{{G1239}}`) is more than simply "to give"; it signifies the act of distributing widely or delivering sequentially. Its etymology from διά (through) and δίδωμι (to give) underscores this nuance of widespread dissemination or formal transmission. In the New Testament, this verb illuminates divine provision through Christ, particularly in the miraculous feeding, where sustenance is effectively distributed to all. It also powerfully describes the communal life of the early church, where resources were generously and equitably distributed to meet the needs of all believers, serving as a tangible expression of *koinonia* and love. Furthermore, διαδίδωμι conveys a profound ethical challenge to believers regarding the stewardship and generous distribution of material wealth, reflecting a core aspect of Christian discipleship and the nature of God's Kingdom.
TRV