### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **diapríō**, represented by `{{G1282}}`, literally means to **saw asunder**. In scripture, it is used figuratively to describe a state of being extremely exasperated or, as it is translated, being "**cut to the heart**." This powerful term appears only **2 times** across **2 unique verses**, highlighting a very specific and intense reaction.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G1282}}` describes the furious reaction of the religious council in Jerusalem to the preaching of the apostles. When the council heard the apostles' testimony, "they were **cut** to the heart, and took counsel to slay them" [[Acts 5:33]]. Later, upon hearing Stephen's address, they again "were **cut** to the heart, and they gnashed on him with their teeth" [[Acts 7:54]]. In both instances, the word denotes a conviction that, instead of leading to repentance, incites a violent and murderous rage.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context and consequence of being "cut to the heart":
* `{{G2588}}` **kardía** (the heart): This is the object of the "cutting," representing the core of a person's thoughts and feelings. The message strikes the listeners' innermost being, as seen when "they were cut to the **heart**" [[Acts 7:54]].
* `{{G1011}}` **bouleúō** (consult, take counsel): This shows the deliberate, hostile resolve that follows the emotional wound of `{{G1282}}`. After being cut to the heart, the council "took **counsel** to slay them" [[Acts 5:33]].
* `{{G1031}}` **brýchō** (gnash): This word describes the visceral, physical expression of the internal rage caused by `{{G1282}}`. The listeners' exasperation manifests as they "**gnashed** on him with their teeth" [[Acts 7:54]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1282}}` reveals the nature of a hardened heart's response to divine truth.
* **Violent Reaction to Conviction:** The word illustrates that hearing a message from God can provoke a deeply hostile response. The feeling of being "sawn asunder" is not one of sorrowful conviction but of enraged opposition, leading directly to plots of murder [[Acts 5:33]].
* **Internal State Made External:** `{{G1282}}` signifies an intense internal state that immediately breaks forth into external action. This is seen in the immediate progression from being "cut" to the physical act of gnashing teeth [[Acts 7:54]] or the deliberate act of taking counsel to kill [[Acts 5:33]].
* **The Heart as the Battleground:** The use of "heart" `{{G2588}}` is crucial. It shows that the truth has penetrated to the core of the listeners, but their reaction reveals a heart that is fundamentally opposed to that truth, turning conviction into fury.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1282}}` is a rare but vivid term that captures more than simple anger. It describes a profound and painful internal reaction to truth that, in a hostile heart, festers into violent rage and murderous intent. It demonstrates how a message can pierce a person to their core, revealing their true disposition through their immediate and aggressive response.
TRV