### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **diáphoros**, represented by `{{G1313}}`, communicates a dual sense of being **varying** and **surpassing**. It is derived from διαφέρω. The word appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible, where it is translated as "differing," "divers," or "more excellent," highlighting its capacity to describe both variety and superiority.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G1313}}` carries two distinct meanings. It describes variety within the church, as in Paul's reference to believers having "gifts **differing** according to the grace that is given to us" [[Romans 12:6]]. Similarly, it is used to describe the " **divers** washings" associated with the old covenant's carnal ordinances [[Hebrews 9:10]]. The word is also used to establish superiority, particularly in the book of Hebrews, where Christ is described as having obtained by inheritance a "**more excellent** name" than the angels [[Hebrews 1:4]] and a "**more excellent** ministry" as the mediator of a better covenant [[Hebrews 8:6]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which `{{G1313}}` is found:
* `{{G2909}}` **kreíttōn** (better): This word, meaning "stronger, i.e. (figuratively) better," often appears alongside `{{G1313}}` to emphasize Christ's supremacy. His "more excellent ministry" is tied to a "**better** covenant" established on "**better** promises" [[Hebrews 8:6]].
* `{{G5486}}` **chárisma** (gift): Defined as a "(divine) gratuity" or "spiritual endowment," this term is directly linked to the "differing" aspect of `{{G1313}}`. Believers have **differing** gifts, or **charismata**, according to grace [[Romans 12:6]].
* `{{G1242}}` **diathḗkē** (covenant, testament): The excellence of Christ's ministry is defined by His role as mediator of a new **covenant**. His ministry is more excellent precisely because it establishes this new **covenant** [[Hebrews 8:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G1313}}` is twofold, touching on both Christology and Ecclesiology.
* **The Supremacy of Christ:** The primary theological weight of `{{G1313}}` is to elevate Christ. He is not merely different from angels or the old system; He is superior, possessing a "**more excellent** name" [[Hebrews 1:4]] and a "**more excellent** ministry" [[Hebrews 8:6]]. This establishes His unique and supreme position.
* **Diversity of Spiritual Gifts:** The word defines the nature of the church's spiritual health. The "gifts **differing**" [[Romans 12:6]] are not a source of division but a reflection of the manifold grace `{{G5485}}` of God, distributed for the common good.
* **The Old and New Covenants:** `{{G1313}}` is used to contrast the " **divers** washings" of the first covenant [[Hebrews 9:10]] with the "more excellent ministry" of the new, highlighting a shift from external, varied rituals to a singular, superior reality in Christ.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1313}}` is a concise yet powerful word that conveys both variety and preeminence. It is used to describe the functional diversity of gifts within the body of Christ, while its most significant use in Scripture is to affirm the absolute and unparalleled superiority of Christ's person, name, and ministry over all that came before.
TRV