### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **diákrisis**, represented by `{{G1253}}`, refers to judicial estimation. It appears 3 times across 3 unique verses in the Bible, and its meaning encompasses the concepts of **discerning** or **disputation**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G1253}}` is used in several key contexts. In [[Romans 14:1]], it warns against engaging in **disputations** over doubtful matters when receiving a believer who is weak in the faith. Conversely, in [[Hebrews 5:14]], it describes the ability of mature believers to **discern** between good and evil. This ability is developed through practice and is a mark of spiritual full age. The word is also identified as a spiritual gift in [[1 Corinthians 12:10]], specifically the **discerning** of spirits, which is listed alongside prophecy and the working of miracles.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of judicial estimation and spiritual judgment:
* `{{G1261}}` **dialogismós** (discussion, i.e. (internal) consideration (by implication, purpose), or (external) debate:--dispute, doubtful(-ing), imagination, reasoning, thought): This word is used alongside `{{G1253}}` to describe the "doubtful **disputations**" that believers should avoid [[Romans 14:1]].
* `{{G4151}}` **pneûma** (a current of air, i.e. breath (blast) or a breeze; by analogy or figuratively, a spirit...): The gift of discerning, or `{{G1253}}`, is specifically for the purpose of distinguishing between different kinds of **spirits** [[1 Corinthians 12:10]].
* `{{G5046}}` **téleios** (complete (in various applications of labor, growth, mental and moral character, etc.); neuter (as noun, with ὁ) completeness:--of full age, man, perfect): This term describes the mature believers, those "of **full age**," who are able to use `{{G1253}}` to discern good and evil [[Hebrews 5:14]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1253}}` is significant, touching on maturity, unity, and spiritual gifts.
* **A Mark of Spiritual Maturity:** The ability to **discern** is presented as a characteristic of those who are of **full age** `{{G5046}}` in the faith. It is not an elementary principle but a skill developed through use `{{G1838}}` of spiritual senses `{{G145}}` to distinguish between good `{{G2570}}` and evil `{{G2556}}` [[Hebrews 5:14]].
* **Guardian of Church Harmony:** When used improperly as **disputation**, `{{G1253}}` can be a source of division. Believers are instructed to receive `{{G4355}}` those weak `{{G770}}` in faith without engaging in doubtful **disputations**, highlighting a theological priority of unity over contentious debate [[Romans 14:1]].
* **A Gift of the Holy Spirit:** Beyond a developed human skill, **discerning** `{{G1253}}` is also a specific, supernatural gift. It is listed among the operations `{{G1755}}` of the Spirit, such as prophecy `{{G4394}}` and miracles `{{G1411}}`, for the purpose of identifying the nature of various **spirits** `{{G4151}}` [[1 Corinthians 12:10]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1253}}` is a term for judicial estimation that manifests as both a spiritual gift and a developed skill of maturity. It carries a dual meaning, representing the crucial ability to **discern** between good and evil and between spiritual influences, while also cautioning against unproductive **disputations** that can disrupt fellowship. Whether as a mark of a mature believer or a specific gift of the Spirit, `{{G1253}}` is essential for navigating theological truth and maintaining the health of the church.
TRV