### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **dialýō**, represented by `{{G1262}}`, is defined as "to dissolve utterly" or to **scatter**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, making its single usage particularly significant. The term conveys a complete and final dispersal of a group, suggesting a total collapse or dissolution.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole biblical appearance of `{{G1262}}` is in the book of Acts, during a speech describing the fate of the followers of Theudas. After Theudas, who had gathered about four hundred men, was slain, all of his followers were **scattered** [[Acts 5:36]]. This use of the word illustrates the swift and total disintegration of a human-led movement after the removal of its leader, demonstrating the fragility of the group's unity.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the same verse provide a full narrative of the event, showing the cause and effect of this scattering:
* `{{G3982}}` **peíthō** (to convince... obey, persuade, trust): This word explains the initial allegiance of the followers, who **obeyed** Theudas and joined his cause [[Acts 5:36]].
* `{{G337}}` **anairéō** (to take away (violently)... slay): This term marks the pivotal event that led to the group's collapse. When Theudas was **slain**, the movement lost its center and began to unravel [[Acts 5:36]].
* `{{G3762}}` **oudeís** (not even one... none, nobody, nothing): This describes the ultimate outcome following the dispersal. The movement and its followers were "brought to **nought**," highlighting the complete and utter failure of their endeavor [[Acts 5:36]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1262}}` is derived from its context within the narrative of Acts. It serves as a key illustration of a broader principle regarding the nature of human versus divine movements.
* **Fragility of Human Endeavors:** The story of Theudas is used as an example of a movement built on a human foundation. When the leader was slain, his followers **scattered**, showing that such enterprises are temporary and destined to dissolve [[Acts 5:36]].
* **The Result of Misplaced Obedience:** The men who **obeyed** `{{G3982}}` Theudas saw their commitment result in being **scattered** `{{G1262}}` and brought to **nought** `{{G3762}}`. This sequence demonstrates the futility of following a leader or cause not originating from God.
* **An Indicator of Origin:** The act of being "scattered" is presented as evidence of a movement's human origins. The complete dissolution of Theudas's followers is contrasted with the implied permanence of a work of God, which cannot be overthrown.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1262}}` **dialýō**, while rare, offers a concise and powerful illustration of dissolution. Its single use in [[Acts 5:36]] does more than describe a physical dispersal; it signifies the complete collapse of a movement lacking a divine foundation. Framed by the concepts of human obedience, a violent death, and an ultimate outcome of nothing, it encapsulates the biblical theme of the ephemeral nature of man's work.
TRV