### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **diallássō**, represented by `{{G1259}}`, means to **reconcile** or to change thoroughly and conciliate. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, highlighting its specific and powerful application in the context of interpersonal relationships. Its core meaning involves a thorough mental change leading to conciliation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole biblical use of `{{G1259}}` is found in [[Matthew 5:24]], where Jesus instructs that if someone brings a **gift** to the **altar** and remembers their **brother** has something against them, they should first be **reconciled** before presenting their offering. This command prioritizes relational restoration over religious ceremony, framing reconciliation as a necessary precursor to acceptable worship. The act of being **reconciled** `{{G1259}}` is presented as an urgent, primary action.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the surrounding text clarify the context of reconciliation:
* `{{G863}}` **aphíēmi** (leave): This word commands the worshipper to **leave** their gift, meaning to send it forth or put it away. It highlights the physical act of pausing worship to pursue reconciliation [[Matthew 5:24]].
* `{{G2379}}` **thysiastḗrion** (altar): This term refers to the **altar**, a place of sacrifice. Its presence underscores that reconciliation is required even at the most sacred point of religious observance [[Matthew 5:24]].
* `{{G80}}` **adelphós** (brother): This word for **brother** can be taken literally or figuratively. The command to reconcile applies to relationships within the community of believers, not just immediate family [[Matthew 5:24]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1259}}` is significant despite its single use, establishing a foundational principle for Christian conduct.
* **Primacy of Reconciliation:** The command to "**first** be reconciled" `{{G4412}}` before offering a gift establishes that relational harmony is a prerequisite for authentic worship. God prioritizes restored relationships among people before accepting their offerings [[Matthew 5:24]].
* **Active Pursuit of Peace:** The instruction to "**leave**" `{{G863}}` the gift and "**go thy way**" `{{G5217}}` frames reconciliation not as a passive hope but as an active, urgent duty that requires initiative.
* **Foundation for Worship:** The context of bringing a gift to the **altar** `{{G2379}}` shows that human relationships and divine worship are deeply intertwined. An unreconciled state with a **brother** `{{G80}}` hinders one's ability to properly approach God.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1259}}` **diallássō** is a term focused on active reconciliation. Though it appears only once, its placement in [[Matthew 5:24]] gives it immense weight. It teaches that mending broken relationships with a **brother** is not an optional activity but a foundational requirement that must be addressed even before completing an act of worship like offering a gift at the **altar**. The word encapsulates the principle that our horizontal relationships are inseparable from our vertical relationship with God.
TRV