from διά and αἱρέομαι; to separate, i.e. distribute:--divide.
Transliteration:diairéō
Pronunciation:dee-ahee-reh'-o
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb διαίρεω (diairéō, `{{G1244}}`) is derived from the preposition διά (dia), meaning "through" or "apart," and the verb αἱρέομαι (haireomai), meaning "to take" or "to choose for oneself." Etymologically, it signifies "to take apart" or "to separate by taking." Its core meaning revolves around the act of dividing, separating, or distributing. The semantic range of διαίρεω thus encompasses the intentional partitioning of something into distinct components, often with the implication of allocation or apportionment. It is not merely a passive separation but an active, purposeful act of division for a specific end.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb διαίρεω (diairéō, `{{G1244}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, but this singular occurrence is highly significant. It is found in [[1 Corinthians 12:11]], within Paul's comprehensive discourse on spiritual gifts: "But one and the same Spirit works all these things, distributing to each one individually as He wills."
In this pivotal verse, διαίρεῖ (diairei), the third person singular present active indicative form of διαίρεω, describes the sovereign action of the Holy Spirit. The context of [[1 Corinthians 12]] is Paul's instruction to the Corinthian church regarding the diversity and unity of spiritual gifts within the body of Christ. The verb emphasizes that the distribution of these gifts is not arbitrary, nor is it based on human merit or desire. Rather, it is the deliberate and purposeful act of the Holy Spirit, who "distributes" (διαίρεῖ) gifts to each believer "as He wills" (καθὼς βούλεται). This highlights the divine initiative and wisdom behind the endowment of spiritual abilities, ensuring that each member of the church is uniquely equipped for service. The division, though creating diversity, ultimately serves to foster unity and interdependence within the one body of Christ.
### Related Words & Concepts
Closely related to διαίρεω (diairéō, `{{G1244}}`) is its noun form, διαίρεσις (diairesis, `{{G1245}}`), which means "division" or "variety." This noun appears twice in the immediate context of [[1 Corinthians 12]], specifically in [[1 Corinthians 12:4]] ("Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit") and [[1 Corinthians 12:6]] ("And there are varieties of activities, but the same God who empowers them all in everyone"). These occurrences underscore the *result* or *nature* of the Spirit's dividing work – a glorious diversity of spiritual gifts and ministries.
Other related Greek terms include:
* μερίζω (merizō, `{{G3307}}`): "to divide," "to apportion," or "to share." While similar in meaning, διαίρεω often carries a stronger sense of active separation for distribution, particularly in its specific theological context.
* δίδωμι (didōmi, `{{G1325}}`): "to give" or "to grant." This is a broader term for bestowing, whereas διαίρεω specifies the *manner* of giving as a purposeful division or distribution.
* χαρίσματα (charismata, `{{G5486}}`): "spiritual gifts." These are the specific objects that the Holy Spirit διαίρεῖ (divides/distributes). The concept of divine sovereignty in the bestowal of these gifts is central to understanding διαίρεω.
### Theological Significance
The singular use of διαίρεω (diairéō, `{{G1244}}`) in [[1 Corinthians 12:11]] carries profound theological weight.
1. **Sovereignty of the Holy Spirit:** The verb unequivocally asserts the absolute sovereignty of the Holy Spirit in the distribution of spiritual gifts. Gifts are not acquired through human effort, merit, or personal choice, but are divinely apportioned by the Spirit's will alone. This emphasizes God's initiative and wisdom in equipping His church.
2. **Unity in Diversity:** While διαίρεω signifies "division" or "distribution," its contextual placement in [[1 Corinthians 12]] highlights how this divine partitioning serves to create unity. The Spirit divides gifts among various members, but this diversity functions to build up one unified body of Christ. Each unique gift contributes to the common good of the church ([[1 Corinthians 12:7]]), demonstrating God's design for interdependence.
3. **Purposeful Bestowal:** The act of διαίρεω is not random or haphazard. It is a purposeful allocation, ensuring that each believer receives specific endowments that enable them to fulfill their unique role within the church. This divine strategy ensures that all necessary functions for the body's health and mission are provided.
4. **Empowerment for Service:** The Spirit's act of διαίρεω empowers believers for effective ministry and service. It underscores that spiritual abilities are divine enablement for believers to participate in God's ongoing work in the world.
### Summary
The Greek verb διαίρεω (diairéō, `{{G1244}}`) literally means "to divide" or "to distribute." Its solitary, yet highly significant, appearance in the New Testament is found in [[1 Corinthians 12:11]]. Here, it describes the precise and sovereign act of the Holy Spirit in distributing spiritual gifts to individual believers "as He wills." This word underscores the divine initiative, wisdom, and authority of the Holy Spirit in equipping the body of Christ. It emphasizes that the diversity of gifts, resulting from the Spirit's intentional διαίρεω, ultimately serves to foster unity and interdependence within the church, empowering believers for their unique roles in God's redemptive plan.
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