### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **diaspáō**, represented by `{{G1288}}`, is defined as to draw apart, sever, or dismember. It is formed from the words διά and σπάω. This term appears 2 times in 2 unique verses, consistently conveying a sense of violent and forceful tearing or pulling apart.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G1288}}` is used to describe acts of immense force. In one instance, it illustrates the supernatural strength of a demon-possessed man who had been bound with fetters and chains. The scripture notes that the chains had been **plucked asunder** by him, a feat beyond normal human ability [[Mark 5:4]]. In another context, it describes the intensity of a crowd's dissension over the apostle Paul, where the chief captain feared Paul would be **pulled in pieces** by them, prompting a military intervention to save him [[Acts 23:10]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the actions and objects associated with `{{G1288}}`:
* `{{G1210}}` **déō** (a primary verb; to bind (in various applications, literally or figuratively):--bind, be in bonds, knit, tie, wind): This is the action that `{{G1288}}` violently undoes. It is used for binding people, as with the strong man [[Mark 3:27]], and even for binding Satan [[Revelation 20:2]].
* `{{G254}}` **hálysis** (of uncertain derivation; a fetter or manacle:--bonds, chain): This is the object that was **plucked asunder** in [[Mark 5:4]]. Chains are frequently mentioned as instruments of imprisonment, used on both Peter [[Acts 12:6]] and Paul [[Acts 21:33]].
* `{{G3976}}` **pédē** (ultimately from πούς; a shackle for the feet:--fetter): These shackles, used for the feet, are mentioned alongside chains as restraints that were broken by the demon-possessed man [[Mark 5:4]].
* `{{G4937}}` **syntríbō** (to crush completely, i.e. to shatter (literally or figuratively):--break (in pieces), broken to shivers (+ -hearted), bruise): This word is used in the same verse as `{{G1288}}` to describe how the fetters were **broken in pieces**, emphasizing the complete and destructive nature of the force exerted [[Mark 5:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1288}}` is found in its depiction of overwhelming power and conflict.
* **Supernatural Force:** The use of the word to describe the demon-possessed man **plucking asunder** his chains highlights a power that is not of human origin. It serves to emphasize the severity of the spiritual bondage from which he needed deliverance [[Mark 5:4]].
* **Violent Conflict:** In the account of the dissension over Paul, the term illustrates the sheer physical danger and violent opposition faced by followers of Christ. The fear that Paul would be **pulled in pieces** shows the raw, destructive potential of human division and anger [[Acts 23:10]].
* **The Act of Breaking:** While other words describe binding, `{{G1288}}` is specifically about the violent undoing of those bonds. It represents a complete and forceful severance, whether of physical chains or the fabric of a human body under mob rule.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1288}}` **diaspáō** is a potent and descriptive word, signifying a violent tearing apart. Though used sparingly, its appearances in scripture are memorable, illustrating both the unnatural strength of demonic forces and the extreme peril of human conflict. It captures a level of force so great that it can sever chains and threaten to dismember a person, making it a powerful term for violent destruction.
TRV