from δίς; properly, to duplicate, i.e. (mentally) to waver (in opinion):--doubt.
Transliteration:distázō
Pronunciation:dis-tad'-zo
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word διστάζω (`{{G1365}}`), transliterated as *distázō*, is derived from the root δίς (*dis*), meaning "twice" or "twofold." Properly, it conveys the sense of "to stand in two ways" or "to be divided." Mentally, this translates to a state of internal conflict, hesitation, or uncertainty. Its primary semantic range encompasses "to waver (in opinion)," "to be of two minds," or "to doubt." This is not merely a lack of information, but an active internal struggle where one is pulled between opposing convictions or possibilities, often between belief and unbelief, or trust and fear. It denotes an indecisiveness that prevents resolute action or conviction.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term διστάζω (`{{G1365}}`) appears only twice in the New Testament, both times in the Gospel of Matthew, yet each instance is profoundly illustrative of its meaning:
1. **[[Matthew 14:31]]**: Following Peter's attempt to walk on water, Jesus reaches out to save him, asking, "O you of little faith, why did you doubt (ἐδίστασας)?"
* Contextually, Peter initially demonstrates faith by stepping out of the boat at Jesus' command. However, upon seeing the strong wind, his focus shifts from Christ's power to the threatening circumstances. His "doubting" here is a wavering between trust in Jesus' word and fear of the storm. It represents a division in his conviction, leading to a loss of spiritual footing and the beginning of his sinking. Jesus' question directly links this doubt to a deficiency in faith (ὀλιγοπιστία).
2. **[[Matthew 28:17]]**: Describing the disciples' reaction upon seeing the resurrected Christ in Galilee, the text states, "And when they saw Him, they worshiped Him; but some doubted (ἐδίστασαν)."
* This is a remarkable and poignant occurrence. Even in the immediate presence of the resurrected Lord, the ultimate proof of His divine authority and victory over death, some disciples still experienced διστάζω. This is not presented as outright denial or hardened unbelief, but as an internal struggle, a lingering uncertainty or hesitation to fully grasp and embrace the reality before them. It underscores the profound human challenge in fully apprehending divine truth, even when it is physically manifested. Yet, significantly, Jesus does not condemn them but proceeds to give the Great Commission ([[Matthew 28:18-20]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
The concept of doubt and internal division is also expressed through other Greek terms in the New Testament:
* **`{{G1252}}` διακρίνω (*diakrinō*)**: This word can mean "to distinguish" or "to judge," but also frequently carries the sense of "to waver" or "to doubt," particularly in the context of faith. For instance, [[James 1:6]] warns against the one who "doubts" (διακρινόμενος), comparing them to a wave of the sea. Similarly, [[Romans 14:23]] states that whoever "doubts" (διακρινόμενος) is condemned if they eat. While διστάζω emphasizes being "of two minds," διακρίνω often suggests a process of internal debate or judgment that leads to division. Both terms highlight a lack of single-minded conviction.
* **`{{G544}}` ἀπιστία (*apistia*)**: This term refers to "unbelief" or "faithlessness." While related, διστάζω describes a state of wavering that may precede or accompany ἀπιστία, but is not necessarily a settled state of non-belief. One might *distázō* (waver) in faith, but still possess some measure of faith, whereas ἀπιστία denotes a more complete absence or rejection of faith.
* **`{{G3614}}` ὀλιγοπιστία (*oligopistia*)**: Meaning "little faith," this term is directly linked to διστάζω in [[Matthew 14:31]]. It suggests that διστάζω is a manifestation or consequence of having insufficient faith, a faith that is not robust enough to withstand external pressures or internal uncertainties.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of διστάζω (`{{G1365}}`) is profound, offering insights into the nature of faith, doubt, and divine grace:
1. **The Nature of Doubt**: *Distázō* portrays doubt not merely as an intellectual query, but as a spiritual malady—a division within the heart and mind that compromises one's commitment to divine truth. It is a state of being pulled in two directions, hindering full trust and obedience.
2. **Faith's Adversary**: In both Matthean occurrences, διστάζω stands in direct opposition to faith. Peter's doubt leads to sinking, illustrating how wavering faith undermines spiritual power and the ability to walk in divine enablement. The disciples' doubt after the resurrection highlights that even direct divine revelation requires a response of unwavering trust.
3. **Human Frailty and Divine Grace**: The presence of doubt even among those closest to Christ, and even after His resurrection, underscores the persistent human struggle with faith. It reveals the fragility of human conviction in the face of fear or the incomprehensibility of the divine. Crucially, Christ's response to this doubt is not condemnation but compassionate intervention ([[Matthew 14:31]]) and continued commissioning ([[Matthew 28:18-20]]), demonstrating His patience and grace toward those who grapple with internal uncertainty.
4. **Call to Single-Mindedness**: The very root of διστάζω (being "twice" or "twofold") implicitly calls believers to single-minded devotion and trust in God. A divided heart cannot fully receive or act upon divine truth.
### Summary
The Greek word διστάζω (`{{G1365}}`), derived from the concept of "twofold," precisely describes the mental and spiritual state of "wavering" or "doubting." It signifies being "of two minds," pulled between opposing convictions, often between faith and fear or unbelief. Though appearing only twice in the New Testament, both instances in Matthew are highly instructive: [[Matthew 14:31]] reveals Peter's doubt as a failure of faith in the face of fear, leading to his sinking, while [[Matthew 28:17]] astonishingly shows some disciples experiencing this internal hesitation even after encountering the resurrected Christ. Theologically, *distázō* illuminates doubt as a significant challenge to faith, demonstrating how a divided heart can hinder spiritual progress and understanding. Yet, it also implicitly underscores Christ's gracious patience toward those who struggle with this inherent human frailty, calling believers to unwavering, single-minded trust in Him.
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