### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **dicházō**, represented by `{{G1369}}`, means to **make apart** or **sunder**. This term appears 2 times in 1 unique verse in the Bible. It is used figuratively to describe alienation or to **set at variance** within relationships.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole biblical use of `{{G1369}}` is in [[Matthew 10:35]], where Jesus states, "For I am **come** to **set** a **man** at **variance** against his **father**, and the **daughter** against her **mother**, and the **daughter in law** against her **mother in law**." Here, the word powerfully illustrates the divisive societal impact of Christ's message. It describes an intentional sundering of the most fundamental family units, demonstrating that allegiance to Him can create profound conflict within human relationships.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context help clarify the scope and nature of this division:
* `{{G2064}}` **érchomai** (to come or go): This word signifies the arrival or action that initiates the division. While Christ's coming is the stated cause to **set at variance** [[Matthew 10:35]], His purpose in coming is also to seek and save the lost [[Luke 19:10]].
* `{{G3962}}` **patḗr** (father): This term represents one of the core relationships being sundered. Following Christ may set a person against their earthly **father** [[Matthew 10:35]], yet the ultimate goal for believers is to **come** to God the **Father** [[John 14:6]].
* `{{G2596}}` **katá** (against): This preposition defines the opposition created by the division. It is used to show a man set **against** his father, highlighting the conflict. The same word is used to ask who can stand **against** believers when God is for them [[Romans 8:31]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1369}}` is significant despite its rarity. It underscores several crucial concepts about discipleship.
* **The Cost of Allegiance:** The word's use in [[Matthew 10:35]] makes it clear that following Christ requires a supreme loyalty that can supersede even the most sacred family bonds.
* **The Divisive Nature of Truth:** The act to **set at variance** demonstrates that the Gospel is not a message of peace at any cost. Its introduction into the world forces a separation between those who accept it and those who reject it.
* **A Reordering of Relationships:** The result of this sundering is a complete reordering of relational priorities. The specific examples of division between a **man** `{{G444}}` and his **father** `{{G3962}}`, and a **daughter** `{{G2364}}` and her **mother** `{{G3384}}`, show that no earthly tie is exempt from this potential realignment.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1369}}` is a sharp and impactful word conveying deep alienation rather than simple disagreement. Its single application in scripture [[Matthew 10:35]] is a pivotal statement on the nature of Christ's mission and the cost of discipleship. It reveals that the ultimate commitment to God can fundamentally disrupt human structures, establishing a new and higher loyalty that can **set at variance** even the closest of kin.
TRV