διστάζω

Core Meaning & Semantic Range

The Greek word distázō, represented by G1365, is defined as properly, to duplicate, i.e. (mentally) to waver in opinion, or to doubt. This term, derived from δίς, appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible, highlighting specific moments of wavering belief among Christ's followers.

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

In the biblical narrative, G1365 is used in two key instances. First, when Peter attempts to walk on water towards Jesus, his faltering faith leads him to sink, prompting Jesus's question, "O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?" Matthew 14:31. Later, after the resurrection, when the disciples see Jesus, the scripture states, "they worshipped him: but some doubted" Matthew 28:17, illustrating that even in the face of the risen Lord, some still experienced mental wavering.

Related Words & Concepts

Several related words expand upon the concepts of doubt, faith, and sight:

• G3640 oligópistos (of little faith): This term for being incredulous or lacking confidence in Christ is directly paired with doubt in Jesus's rebuke of Peter Matthew 14:31.
• G1492 eídō (to see, know): This word is used when the disciples saw Jesus after the resurrection, an act that prompted worship from most but still allowed for doubt in some Matthew 28:17.
• G4352 proskynéō (worship): This word describes the disciples' act of homage to the resurrected Christ, an act that occurred even as some among them doubted Matthew 28:17.

Theological Significance

The theological weight of G1365 is focused on the internal state of a believer.

• Doubt vs. Faith: The term is explicitly set in opposition to faith. In Jesus's question to Peter, doubt is the direct cause of his failure and is linked to having "little faith" Matthew 14:31.
• Doubt Amidst Revelation: The appearance of G1365 in Matthew 28:17 demonstrates that seeing and even worshipping is not a complete antidote to doubt. It reveals the complex reality that a person can perform an outward act of reverence while simultaneously experiencing internal uncertainty.
• A Divided Mind: The root meaning of "to duplicate" captures the essence of this doubt as a wavering or divided opinion. It is not an outright rejection of belief but a state of mental hesitation that undermines confident action and assurance.

Summary

In summary, G1365 provides a precise definition for the experience of wavering in one's belief. Though used infrequently, its context in the scriptures is powerful, illustrating the direct conflict between doubt and faith. It shows that doubt can surface even during miraculous events and can exist alongside acts of worship, highlighting the profound internal struggles that can be part of a believer's journey.