from a compound of διά and a derivative of ὀρθός, meaning to straighten thoroughly; rectification, i.e. (specially) the Messianic restauration:--reformation.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **diórthōsis**, represented by `{{G1357}}`, means rectification or a thorough straightening. Derived from a compound of words meaning "to straighten thoroughly," it is specially used to refer to the Messianic restauration. It is a rare term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G1357}}` is in [[Hebrews 9:10]], where it defines a pivotal moment of change. The verse describes the old covenant's regulations, which consisted of **meats** `{{G1033}}`, **drinks** `{{G4188}}`, **divers** `{{G1313}}` **washings** `{{G909}}`, and **carnal** `{{G4561}}` **ordinances** `{{G1345}}`. These practices were imposed only "until the time of **reformation**," establishing `{{G1357}}` as the term for the new era that supersedes these external rituals.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context in [[Hebrews 9:10]] clarify the nature of the system that the "reformation" replaced:
* `{{G1033}}` **brōma** (meat): Defined as food, especially articles allowed or forbidden by Jewish law. It points to the dietary regulations of the old system which, according to [[Hebrews 13:9]], do not profit those occupied with them.
* `{{G1313}}` **diáphoros** (divers): Meaning varying or surpassing. It describes the "washings" of the old covenant, but is also used elsewhere to describe the "more excellent" name and ministry of Christ, connecting the idea of difference with superiority ([[Hebrews 1:4]], [[Hebrews 8:6]]).
* `{{G1345}}` **dikaíōma** (ordinance): This word refers to a statute or decision. In [[Hebrews 9:10]], it describes the "carnal **ordinances**," but it is also used for the "righteousness of saints" [[Revelation 19:8]] and the righteous "judgment of God" [[Romans 1:32]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1357}}` is centered on the concept of a divinely appointed correction and fulfillment.
* **The Messianic Restauration:** The core definition of **diórthōsis** points specifically to a Messianic event. It is not just any improvement, but the "time of reformation" brought about by the Messiah.
* **Transition from Carnal to Spiritual:** The "reformation" marks the end of a system based on **carnal** `{{G4561}}`, or fleshly, ordinances. This system, focused on external things like **meats** `{{G1033}}` and **drinks** `{{G4188}}`, is replaced by a new reality.
* **Fulfillment of Temporary Ordinances:** The language in [[Hebrews 9:10]], stating the old rules were imposed "until" this time, frames the reformation as the intended fulfillment and conclusion of those prior statutes.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{G1357}}` **diórthōsis** is used only once, its placement in scripture is highly significant. It serves as a theological marker for the end of the old covenant's ceremonial regulations. The word encapsulates the idea of a complete "rectification" or "straightening" of worship and practice, brought about during the era of Messianic restoration. It distinguishes the temporary, external system from the permanent, excellent reality that replaces it.
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