### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun διάστημα (diástēma, `{{G1292}}`) is derived from the verb διΐστημι (diïstēmi, `{{G1300}}`), which means "to stand apart," "to separate," or "to intervene." Consequently, διάστημα fundamentally denotes an "interval," "space," or "distance" between two points, whether spatial or temporal. Its primary semantic range is quite literal, referring to a measurable gap or period. In classical Greek, it could refer to a musical interval, a spatial distance, or a lapse of time. In its biblical usage, as will be seen, it maintains this core meaning of a temporal interval.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term διάστημα (diástēma, `{{G1292}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in the Book of Acts:
* **[[Acts 5:7]]**: "And it was about the space of three hours after, when his wife, not knowing what was done, came in."
In this singular occurrence, διάστημα clearly refers to a temporal interval. Following the death of Ananias, a "space of three hours" elapsed before his wife, Sapphira, entered. This interval is crucial to the narrative, as it highlights Sapphira's independent arrival and her ignorance of her husband's fate, setting the stage for her own confrontation with Peter and the subsequent divine judgment. The word here functions as a precise measurement of the time gap, emphasizing the sequence and timing of events within the unfolding drama of the early church. It underscores the deliberate, measured progression of divine judgment.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related word is the verb from which διάστημα (diástēma, `{{G1292}}`) is derived: διΐστημι (diïstēmi, `{{G1300}}`). This verb means "to stand apart," "to separate," or "to depart." The noun διάστημα thus represents the *result* or *product* of such a separation or standing apart—the interval or space created. While διάστημα is specific to a measurable gap, other Greek words convey concepts of time:
* χρόνος (chronos, `{{G5550}}`): General time, a duration.
* καιρός (kairos, `{{G2540}}`): Appointed time, opportune time, a season.
Unlike χρόνος or καιρός, διάστημα emphasizes the *gap* or *intervening period* between two distinct points or events. It is less about the nature of the time itself and more about the existence of a measurable separation. In the context of [[Acts 5:7]], the "space" is a specific, measurable interlude, not merely a general duration or a divinely appointed moment, though it serves to structure the divine unfolding of events.
### Theological Significance
Given its singular occurrence and literal meaning, διάστημα (diástēma, `{{G1292}}`) does not carry profound theological weight in itself. Its significance is primarily contextual, serving to mark a specific temporal separation within a divinely orchestrated narrative. In [[Acts 5:7]], the "space of three hours" is not merely incidental; it is integral to the unfolding of God's judgment upon Ananias and Sapphira. This interval allows for the distinct and separate testing of Sapphira, demonstrating that her deception was independent of her husband's immediate fate and equally deserving of judgment.
Though the word itself is neutral, its placement in this pivotal account of early church discipline highlights God's meticulous ordering of events. Even seemingly mundane temporal measurements can be part of a larger divine purpose, ensuring that justice is transparently administered and that the integrity of the nascent community is maintained. The specific timing underscores God's sovereignty over all aspects of creation, including the passage of time and the sequence of human actions and divine responses.
### Summary
The Greek word διάστημα (diástēma, `{{G1292}}`) precisely denotes an "interval" or "space," whether temporal or spatial. Its sole occurrence in the New Testament in [[Acts 5:7]] vividly illustrates its use as a temporal measurement, referring to the "space of three hours" that elapsed between the deaths of Ananias and Sapphira. Derived from διΐστημι (diïstēmi, `{{G1300}}`), "to stand apart," it emphasizes the measurable gap or separation. While not bearing intrinsic theological significance, its specific use in the Acts narrative underscores the deliberate and ordered nature of divine judgment and the precise timing within God's sovereign plan, shaping the dramatic unfolding of events in the early Christian community.
TRV