### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **diaíresis**, represented by `{{G1243}}`, communicates the idea of **distinction** or, more concretely, **variety**. It is translated in scripture as **difference** or **diversity**. This specific term appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible, focusing on a key aspect of spiritual functions.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G1243}}` is exclusively used to describe the variety of spiritual endowments given to believers. There are **diversities** of gifts, but they come from the same **Spirit** [[1 Corinthians 12:4]]. Similarly, there are **differences** of administrations, but from the same **Lord** [[1 Corinthians 12:5]]. The word is used a third time to describe **diversities** of operations, emphasizing that it is the same **God** who works all things in all people [[1 Corinthians 12:6]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context of these **diversities**:
* `{{G5486}}` **chárisma** (gift): Defined as a (divine) gratuity or a (spiritual) endowment. It underscores that these varied abilities are free **gifts** from God, with the ultimate **gift** being eternal life [[Romans 6:23]].
* `{{G1248}}` **diakonía** (ministration): This term refers to (official) service or **ministry**. It is used to describe the different roles and services believers carry out, such as for the work of the **ministry** [[Ephesians 4:12]].
* `{{G1755}}` **enérgēma** (operation): Meaning an effect or **working**. This points to the active effects or results produced by spiritual gifts, such as the **working** of miracles [[1 Corinthians 12:10]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1243}}` centers on the principle of unity within diversity.
* **Unified Source:** The repetition of **diversities** and **differences** is immediately followed by the affirmation of a single source for each: the same **Spirit** [[1 Corinthians 12:4]], the same **Lord** [[1 Corinthians 12:5]], and the same **God** [[1 Corinthians 12:6]].
* **Divine Ordering:** The concept shows that the variety of functions is a deliberate distribution. There are **diversities** of gifts, **differences** of administrations, and **diversities** of operations, each distinguished from the others.
* **Sovereign Power:** The passage culminates by stating it is God which **worketh** `{{G1754}}` all **in** `{{G1722}}` all [[1 Corinthians 12:6]], showing that all varied effects are ultimately empowered by one divine being.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1243}}` is a focused term that conveys the concept of divinely appointed **diversity**. While it appears only a few times, its context in 1 Corinthians 12 is crucial. It illustrates that the varied gifts, administrations, and operations among believers are not signs of division, but rather distinct expressions of the work of the one Spirit, Lord, and God. The word teaches that true spiritual unity is manifested through a variety of functions, all originating from the same divine source.
TRV