from διαστέλλομαι; a variation:--difference, distinction.
Transliteration:diastolḗ
Pronunciation:dee-as-tol-ay'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun *diastolḗ* (`{{G1293}}`) is derived from the verb *diastéllomai* (`{{G1291}}`), which means "to send apart," "to separate," "to distinguish," or "to give a strict order." Consequently, *diastolḗ* inherently conveys the sense of "separation," "distinction," or "difference." It refers to a discernible variation between two or more entities, highlighting their non-identity or the existence of a dividing line between them. Unlike a mere "otherness," *diastolḗ* implies a difference that has been established or recognized, often with implications for classification or status.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
*Diastolḗ* appears only twice in the New Testament, both times in Paul's Epistle to the Romans, and significantly, both times in the negative:
* **Romans 3:22**: "even the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe. For there is no *diastolḗ* (distinction)."
* In this context, Paul is laying the theological groundwork for universal sinfulness and the universal provision of God's righteousness through faith. The "distinction" being negated here refers to any perceived spiritual advantage or privileged status that might have existed between Jew and Gentile under the Mosaic Law. Prior to Christ, the Law indeed created a *diastolḗ* in terms of covenantal identity and access to God's promises. However, in Christ, this *diastolḗ* is abolished concerning the means of salvation. All humanity, regardless of ethnic or religious background, is equally in need of God's saving grace and equally justified by faith.
* **Romans 10:12**: "For there is no *diastolḗ* (distinction) between Jew and Greek; for the same Lord is Lord of all, abounding in riches for all who call on him."
* This verse reiterates and reinforces the theme established in Romans 3. Paul emphasizes the radical inclusivity of the gospel, declaring that the *diastolḗ* based on ethnic or cultural identity (Jew versus Greek) is rendered null and void by the universal sovereignty of the one Lord. The salvific provision of God is available without partiality to all who call upon Him, underscoring that the Lord's redemptive power transcends all human-made divisions.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **διαστέλλομαι (diastéllomai)** `{{G1291}}`: The verbal root from which *diastolḗ* is derived. It signifies the act of distinguishing or separating, highlighting the process that leads to the state of *diastolḗ*.
* **διακρίνω (diakrínō)** `{{G1252}}`: Meaning "to distinguish," "to discern," or "to judge." While *diastolḗ* refers to the state of being different, *diakrínō* often denotes the cognitive or spiritual act of perceiving or making a distinction, particularly in a judgmental or discerning sense.
* **ἕτερος (heteros)** `{{G2087}}` / **ἄλλος (allos)** `{{G24}}`: These words mean "other" or "another." While they denote difference, *diastolḗ* specifically implies a significant separation or distinction that might have been previously relevant but is now rendered irrelevant or non-existent in a particular theological context.
* **Justification by Faith**: The theological bedrock for the use of *diastolḗ* in Romans. If salvation is received solely by faith in Christ, then any previous distinctions based on adherence to the Law, ethnic heritage, or works become irrelevant for obtaining righteousness before God.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of *diastolḗ* in the New Testament is profound, primarily because of its negation. Paul's declaration that there is "no *diastolḗ*" between Jew and Gentile regarding salvation is a foundational statement for Christian theology.
* It underscores the **universal nature of sin**: All humanity, regardless of background, stands equally condemned under the power of sin, necessitating a universal solution.
* It highlights the **singular efficacy of Christ's atonement**: The cross of Christ levels all human distinctions, providing a single path to reconciliation with God that is accessible to all.
* It affirms the **radical inclusivity of God's grace**: God's saving grace is not confined by human categories, ethnic boundaries, or religious achievements. It is freely offered to all who believe.
* This concept is crucial for understanding the **unity of the Church**: It asserts that in Christ, all believers are brought together as one body, transcending former divisions. The church is composed of individuals from "every tribe and language and people and nation" [[Revelation 5:9]], united in Christ without any spiritual *diastolḗ* that would impede their access to God or their fellowship with one another.
### Summary
*Diastolḗ* (`{{G1293}}`) signifies a "difference" or "distinction," implying a separation or setting apart. Though its occurrences in the New Testament are limited to two instances in Romans (3:22, 10:12), its theological impact is immense. In both contexts, Paul emphatically declares that there is "no *diastolḗ*" between Jew and Gentile concerning their need for and access to God's righteousness through faith in Jesus Christ. This negation of *diastolḗ* serves as a powerful assertion of the universal scope of sin, the singular efficacy of Christ's redemptive work, and the radical inclusivity of God's grace. It dismantles human-made barriers to salvation, affirming that all who believe are equally justified, thereby laying a crucial foundation for the unified identity and global mission of the Church.
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