from διά and μερίζω; to partition thoroughly (literally in distribution, figuratively in dissension):--cloven, divide, part.
Transliteration:diamerízō
Pronunciation:dee-am-er-id'-zo
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb διαμερίζω (diamerízō, `{{G1266}}`) is a compound word formed from the preposition διά (dia), meaning "through" or "apart," often used to intensify the meaning of a verb, and μερίζω (merízō, `{{G3307}}`), which means "to divide," "to separate," or "to apportion." Thus, διαμερίζω carries the intensified sense of "to divide thoroughly," "to partition completely," or "to distribute fully." Its semantic range encompasses both literal and figurative applications. Literally, it denotes the act of distributing or apportioning physical items, such as food or possessions. Figuratively, it describes the act of causing internal division or dissension, leading to a state of being "divided against itself." The English renderings "cloven," "divide," and "part" capture these nuances.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term διαμερίζω appears several times in the New Testament, illustrating its diverse applications:
* **Literal Distribution/Partitioning:**
* In the accounts of Jesus feeding the multitudes, διαμερίζω is used to describe the distribution of food. For instance, in [[Mark 6:41]], Jesus "divided" the fish among the disciples to distribute to the crowd, highlighting His miraculous provision.
* At the Last Supper, Jesus "divided" the cup among His disciples, as recorded in [[Luke 22:17]], symbolizing the new covenant in His blood and the communal sharing of its benefits.
* Perhaps most poignantly, διαμερίζω describes the Roman soldiers "dividing" Jesus' garments among themselves after His crucifixion ([[Luke 23:34]], [[John 19:24]]). This act, a fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy ([[Psalm 22:18]]), underscores the complete humiliation and stripping away of earthly possessions from the Son of God, while also revealing the callous indifference of humanity.
* A unique and profound literal usage is found in [[Acts 2:3]], where "tongues as of fire appeared and *divided* and rested on each one of them" at Pentecost. Here, the word signifies a distinct, individual apportionment or distribution of the Holy Spirit's manifestation, enabling the disciples to speak in other tongues.
* **Figurative Division/Dissension:**
* Jesus uses διαμερίζω powerfully in His teaching about a "house divided against itself." In [[Luke 11:17]] and [[Luke 11:18]], He states that "every kingdom *divided* against itself will be ruined, and a house *divided* against itself will fall," in response to accusations that He cast out demons by Beelzebul. This highlights the inherent self-destructive nature of internal conflict and disunity, whether in a kingdom, a household, or even within Satan's own domain.
* Similarly, in [[Luke 12:52-53]], Jesus warns that His coming will bring not peace, but division, even within families, as some will accept Him while others reject Him. This illustrates the profound, often disruptive, spiritual separation that the Gospel can create, challenging existing loyalties and forcing a choice.
### Related Words & Concepts
The study of διαμερίζω is enriched by examining related terms and concepts:
* μερίζω (merízō, `{{G3307}}`): The root verb, meaning "to divide," "to separate," or "to apportion." διαμερίζω is its intensified form, emphasizing a complete or thorough division.
* διαμερισμός (diamerismos, `{{G1267}}`): The noun form derived from διαμερίζω, meaning "division" or "dissension," specifically referring to the state of being divided or in conflict.
* μερίς (meris, `{{G3310}}`): A noun meaning "a part" or "a portion," directly related to the concept of division and distribution.
* μερισμός (merismos, `{{G3311}}`): Another noun, meaning "a division" or "a distribution," often implying the act or result of dividing.
The concept of *unity* stands in stark contrast to διαμερίζω when it signifies dissension. The New Testament frequently extols unity among believers (e.g., [[Ephesians 4:3]], [[Philippians 2:2]]), making the warning against division all the more potent. Conversely, the concept of *provision* or *apportionment* aligns with the literal sense of διαμερίζω, particularly in the context of divine acts.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of διαμερίζω is multifaceted:
1. **The Destructive Nature of Disunity:** Jesus' repeated use of the phrase "a house divided against itself cannot stand" ([[Luke 11:17]], [[Luke 12:52]]) serves as a profound theological warning. It underscores that internal conflict, whether within a spiritual kingdom, a family, or the church, inevitably leads to ruin. This teaching highlights the essential need for unity, particularly within the body of Christ, for its effective witness and mission.
2. **Divine Provision and Humiliation:** The literal uses of διαμερίζω reveal aspects of God's character and plan. Jesus "dividing" the food demonstrates His power to provide abundantly for physical needs. The soldiers "dividing" His garments, though an act of human depravity, fulfills prophecy and underscores the complete self-emptying and humiliation of Christ for humanity's salvation.
3. **The Distinctive Work of the Holy Spirit:** The description of the "cloven tongues as of fire" in [[Acts 2:3]] is a unique and pivotal theological moment. The word διαμερίζω here signifies the distinct, personal indwelling and empowerment by the Holy Spirit for each believer at Pentecost. It marks the beginning of the Spirit's universal distribution, enabling the church to fulfill its global mission. This "division" is not one of disunity, but of individual empowerment for corporate purpose.
### Summary
διαμερίζω (diamerízō, `{{G1266}}`) is a potent Greek verb meaning "to divide thoroughly" or "to distribute completely." Its usage in the New Testament spans both literal and figurative contexts. Literally, it describes acts of physical distribution, such as Jesus apportioning food or soldiers dividing Christ's garments, and uniquely, the individual distribution of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. Figuratively, it powerfully conveys the concept of internal dissension and disunity, particularly in Jesus' warnings about a kingdom or house divided against itself. Theologically, διαμερίζω highlights the destructive consequences of internal conflict, the divine nature of Christ's provision and ultimate humiliation, and the personal, empowering work of the Holy Spirit. This word thus reveals both the perils of disunity and the precise, purposeful acts of God in His redemptive plan.
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