### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun *diamerismós* (διαμερισμός, `{{G1267}}`) is derived from the verb *diamerízō* (διαμερίζω, `{{G1266}}`), which means "to divide into parts," "to distribute," or "to separate." The suffix "-ismos" typically denotes the action or the result of the verb. Thus, *diamerismós* specifically refers to the *result* of division, emphasizing "disunion," "separation," or "schism." The base definition highlights "disunion (of opinion and conduct)," indicating a fragmentation or internal strife. Unlike some uses of the root verb which can denote positive distribution (e.g., of gifts), *diamerismós* carries an inherently negative connotation, signifying a harmful or disruptive separation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The noun *diamerismós* appears only once in the New Testament, found in the Gospel of Luke:
* [[Luke 12:51]]: Jesus declares, "Do you think that I have come to give peace on earth? No, I tell you, but rather *division* (διαμερισμός)."
The context of this singular occurrence is crucial. Jesus is speaking prophetically about the radical and often disruptive nature of His mission and the demands of discipleship. The "division" He speaks of is not a social disagreement but a profound spiritual and relational schism. This disunion will manifest even within the closest familial bonds (as stated in the subsequent verses, [[Luke 12:52-53]]), as allegiance to Christ forces a choice that inherently separates those who embrace His message from those who reject it. This division is an unavoidable consequence of the Gospel's truth, which challenges existing loyalties and comfort zones.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **Root Verb:** *diamerízō* (διαμερίζω, `{{G1266}}`): While *diamerismós* focuses on the negative outcome of disunion, the verb *diamerízō* can also denote positive actions like "distributing" (e.g., the apostles distributing food in [[Acts 6:3]]) or "dividing" in a neutral sense (e.g., a house divided in [[Luke 11:17]]). However, it can also signify negative division, as when garments are divided ([[John 19:24]]). The noun *diamerismós* specifically captures the divisive, schismatic result.
* **Related Nouns:**
* *schisma* (σχίσμα, `{{G4978}}`): This term also means "division" or "schism" and is frequently used to describe internal divisions within the Christian community (e.g., [[1 Corinthians 1:10]], [[1 Corinthians 11:18]], [[1 Corinthians 12:25]]). While *diamerismós* in [[Luke 12:51]] refers to a broader societal or familial division initiated by the Gospel, *schisma* often points to internal rifts among believers.
* *dichostasia* (διχοστασία, `{{G1370}}`): Meaning "dissension" or "division," this word often appears in lists of "works of the flesh" (e.g., [[Romans 16:17]], [[Galatians 5:20]]). It emphasizes a standing apart or separation, often rooted in conflict.
* **Antonym:** *eirēnē* (εἰρήνη, `{{G1515}}`), "peace." Jesus directly contrasts *diamerismós* with "peace" in [[Luke 12:51]], highlighting that His coming, while ultimately leading to eternal peace, first brings a necessary disruption to the false peace of a world resistant to God's truth.
### Theological Significance
The singular use of *diamerismós* in [[Luke 12:51]] carries profound theological weight. It reveals a paradoxical aspect of Jesus' mission: though He is the "Prince of Peace" ([[Isaiah 9:6]]), His advent and the proclamation of His Kingdom inevitably bring a "sword" ([[Matthew 10:34]]) and division. This division is not Jesus' ultimate desire, but an unavoidable consequence of His radical truth and the demand for absolute allegiance.
The Gospel, by its very nature, challenges existing loyalties, values, and societal structures. It forces individuals to make a definitive choice for or against Christ, leading to a separation between those who embrace His call and those who reject it. This can manifest in deep familial strife, social ostracization, and ideological conflict, as seen throughout Christian history. The *diamerismós* signifies the spiritual discernment that occurs when the light of Christ enters the darkness, exposing sin and demanding repentance, thereby creating a divide between those who respond in faith and those who remain in unbelief. It underscores the costly nature of discipleship and the transformative, often disruptive, power of God's Kingdom as it breaks into the world.
### Summary
*Diamerismós* (διαμερισμός, `{{G1267}}`) is a Greek noun meaning "disunion" or "division," derived from the verb *diamerízō* (to divide). Its sole New Testament appearance in [[Luke 12:51]] is highly significant, where Jesus states He came not to bring peace but *diamerismós*. This powerful declaration reveals that the Gospel, though ultimately leading to eternal peace, first brings an inherent and unavoidable separation. This division is not a malevolent intent but the necessary consequence of Christ's radical truth, which compels individuals to choose allegiance, thereby creating a profound schism within families and society between those who embrace His message and those who reject it. The term underscores the disruptive yet redemptive power of God's Kingdom, which challenges all earthly allegiances and brings a spiritual discernment that results in deep, often painful, separation.
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