### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb διατρίβω (diatríbō, `{{G1304}}`) is derived from the preposition διά (diá), meaning "through" or "thoroughly," and the base of τρίβος (tríbos), which refers to a "worn path" or "to rub, wear away." Literally, the compound verb means "to rub through" or "to wear away." When applied to time, its primary meaning shifts to "to spend time," "to tarry," "to remain," or "to continue." The nuance inherent in διατρίβω is that of a significant, not fleeting, duration. It implies a period of sustained presence or activity, rather than a brief stop or transient encounter. In classical Greek, it was commonly used to describe spending time in a place, engaging in a particular activity, or pursuing a course of study, always conveying the idea of an extended period.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
While not among the most frequently occurring verbs in the New Testament, διατρίβω (diatríbō, `{{G1304}}`) appears a handful of times, primarily in the book of Acts, where it consistently denotes the spending of a significant amount of time in a particular location or activity.
* In [[John 3:22]], it describes Jesus and His disciples "spending time" (διέτριβεν) in the Judean countryside for a period, where they were baptizing. This indicates a sustained ministry presence beyond a mere visit.
* [[Acts 14:28]] notes that Paul and Barnabas "spent a long time" (διέτριβον) with the disciples in Antioch. This usage underscores the duration of their stay, implying a period of teaching, fellowship, and consolidation of the fledgling church. The sense is not merely that they were there, but that they *wore away* time in that place, indicating a substantial commitment.
* Similarly, in [[Acts 15:35]], Paul and Barnabas "remained" or "spent time" (διέτριβον) in Antioch, continuing their teaching and preaching with many others. Again, the word highlights an extended period of ministry.
* In [[Acts 20:6]], Luke records that Paul and his companions "spent" (διετρίψαμεν) seven days in Troas. This specific duration emphasizes a deliberate, planned stay, likely for teaching and fellowship, culminating in the breaking of bread on the first day of the week.
* Finally, in [[Acts 25:6]], Festus "spent" (διατρίψας) only eight or ten days in Caesarea before going up to Jerusalem for Paul's trial. Here, the word contrasts with a potentially longer stay, highlighting the relative brevity of his time in Caesarea before attending to pressing judicial matters. Even in this context, it still signifies a period of days, not hours.
Across these occurrences, διατρίβω consistently conveys the idea of a deliberate, sustained period of dwelling or activity, whether for ministry, fellowship, or administrative purposes.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of "to remain" or "to stay" in Greek includes several related terms, each with its own nuance:
* **`{{G3306}}` (μένω - menō):** This is the most common word for "to remain" or "to abide." While διατρίβω emphasizes the *passing* or *wearing away* of time in a place, μένω often focuses on the *state* of remaining or continuing, sometimes with a deeper theological sense of permanence or intimate relationship (e.g., "abiding in Christ").
* **`{{G3948}}` (παραμένω - paramenō):** "To remain beside" or "to continue with." This word often suggests a steadfast adherence or close proximity.
* **`{{G4357}}` (προσμένω - prosmenō):** "To remain with" or "to continue steadfastly." Similar to παραμένω, but can imply a more active commitment to staying.
* **`{{G2902}}` (καθίζω - kathizō):** While primarily "to sit down," it can sometimes imply "to settle" or "to stay" for a period.
The concept conveyed by διατρίβω is closely related to the practical aspects of perseverance, patient endurance, and commitment to a location or task. It speaks to the intentionality of spending time, rather than merely passing through.
### Theological Significance
While διατρίβω (diatríbō, `{{G1304}}`) does not carry profound theological weight in itself, its consistent usage in the book of Acts offers significant insight into the nature of early Christian ministry and community.
The apostles and early evangelists did not merely make fleeting visits; they "spent time" (διέτριβον) in places. This implies:
1. **Intentionality in Ministry:** The extended stays allowed for deeper teaching, discipleship, and the establishment of stable Christian communities. It underscores a model of ministry that values sustained presence and relational investment over superficial evangelism.
2. **Community Building:** The "spending of time" facilitated fellowship, mutual encouragement, and the organic growth of the church. It highlights the importance of shared life and sustained interaction for the health and development of the body of Christ.
3. **Patient Endurance:** The act of "wearing away time" in a place suggests a commitment to the work despite potential challenges or the desire to move on. It speaks to the patient endurance required for effective spiritual labor.
In essence, διατρίβω provides a practical lens through which to view the early church's commitment to building lasting foundations, emphasizing that effective spiritual work often requires the deliberate and sustained investment of time and presence. It reflects a theological understanding that the kingdom of God is built not just through proclamation, but through patient, persistent, and present engagement.
### Summary
The Greek verb διατρίβω (diatríbō, `{{G1304}}`) fundamentally means "to spend time," "to tarry," or "to remain," carrying the nuance of a significant and sustained duration. Derived from roots meaning "to rub through" or "wear away," it aptly describes the process of time passing in a deliberate manner. In the New Testament, particularly in the book of Acts, its usage consistently highlights the intentional and extended presence of individuals, often apostles, in various locations for purposes of ministry, teaching, and community building. While not a term of inherent theological depth, its practical application reveals the early church's commitment to sustained engagement, patient discipleship, and the vital role of prolonged presence in fostering the growth and stability of Christian communities. It underscores that effective spiritual work often requires the deliberate investment of time, reflecting a model of ministry built on enduring commitment rather than fleeting encounters.
TRV