from a derivative of δίς; to make apart, i.e. sunder (figuratively, alienate):--set at variance.
Transliteration:dicházō
Pronunciation:dee-khad'-zo
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb διχάζω (dicházō, `{{G1369}}`) derives from a root related to δίς (dis), meaning "twice" or "twofold." Its core semantic range thus revolves around the concept of division into two parts. Literally, it means "to make apart" or "to sunder," implying the forceful separation of something previously united or whole. Figuratively, and more commonly in its New Testament usage, it signifies "to alienate" or "to set at variance." This figurative sense emphasizes the creation of discord, dissension, or a deep rift between individuals or groups, causing them to stand opposed to one another. The term highlights not merely a separation, but a hostile or conflicting division.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word διχάζω (dicházō, `{{G1369}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, in the Gospel of Matthew:
* **[[Matthew 10:35]]**: "For I have come to set a man against his father, and a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law."
This striking statement is part of Jesus' discourse to His disciples as He commissions them for ministry. In the preceding verse ([[Matthew 10:34]]), Jesus declares, "Do not think that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I have not come to bring peace, but a sword." The use of διχάζω (dicházō) in [[Matthew 10:35]] clarifies the nature of this "sword." It is not a literal weapon, but a metaphorical one representing the divisive impact of the Gospel message.
The context reveals that the allegiance demanded by Christ is so absolute that it can, and often will, create profound divisions even within the most intimate familial relationships. This is not an endorsement of strife for its own sake, but an honest prophetic declaration of the inevitable outcome when some embrace the radical call of discipleship while others reject it. The word διχάζω (dicházō) here underscores the deep, painful, and often unavoidable schism that the truth of the Gospel can cause within households, forcing individuals to choose their ultimate loyalty. It speaks to the disruptive, yet necessary, sifting process inherent in the proclamation of God's kingdom.
### Related Words & Concepts
Understanding διχάζω (dicházō, `{{G1369}}`) is enhanced by examining related terms and concepts:
* **δίς (dis)**: The root from which διχάζω (dicházō) is derived, meaning "twice" or "twofold," reinforcing the core idea of division into two.
* **διχοστασία (dichostasia, `{{G1370}}`)**: A direct cognate, meaning "dissension," "division," or "standing apart." This noun form is frequently used in the New Testament to describe factions or quarrels within the church (e.g., [[Romans 16:17]], [[Galatians 5:20]], [[1 Corinthians 3:3]]). While διχάζω (dicházō) describes the *act* of causing division, διχοστασία (dichostasia) describes the *state* or *result* of such division.
* **σχίζω (schizō, `{{G4977}}`)**: Meaning "to split" or "to tear," often used in a more literal sense (e.g., the tearing of the temple veil in [[Matthew 27:51]], or garments). While similar in meaning, διχάζω (dicházō) more specifically implies setting one against another, creating opposition.
* **μερίζω (merizō, `{{G3307}}`)**: Meaning "to divide," "to distribute," or "to separate." This term can be neutral (e.g., dividing portions) or negative (e.g., a house divided against itself, [[Matthew 12:25]]). διχάζω (dicházō) carries a stronger connotation of hostile separation.
* **Concepts of Peace and Unity**: The disruptive nature indicated by διχάζω (dicházō) stands in stark contrast to biblical concepts of peace (εἰρήνη, eirēnē, `{{G1515}}`) and unity (ἑνότης, henotēs, `{{G1773}}`). While the Gospel ultimately brings peace with God and unity among believers, its initial encounter with a fallen world often results in division.
### Theological Significance
The singular use of διχάζω (dicházō, `{{G1369}}`) in [[Matthew 10:35]] carries profound theological weight:
1. **The Divisive Nature of the Gospel**: It underscores that the Gospel, far from being universally accepted, is inherently divisive in a world alienated from God. It demands a radical choice, and this choice inevitably separates those who embrace Christ from those who reject Him, even within the closest human bonds. This division is not a failure of the Gospel, but a testament to its exclusive claims and transformative power.
2. **The Cost of Discipleship**: Jesus' words serve as a stark warning to prospective disciples about the potential societal and familial costs of following Him. True allegiance to Christ may necessitate a painful reordering of priorities, even if it means alienating loved ones who do not share that commitment. This highlights the absolute supremacy of Christ's call over all other earthly loyalties.
3. **Prophetic Fulfillment**: Jesus' statement resonates with Old Testament prophecies regarding familial division in the last days (e.g., [[Micah 7:6]]), indicating that the coming of the Messiah would indeed bring a spiritual sword that cuts through human relationships.
4. **Paradoxical Peace**: While Jesus is the "Prince of Peace" ([[Isaiah 9:6]]) and brings peace with God ([[Romans 5:1]]), the peace He offers is not the absence of conflict in the world, but an inner spiritual peace that can exist even amidst external strife. The division caused by the Gospel is a necessary process of sifting and revealing true allegiance, ultimately leading to a deeper, eternal peace for those who believe.
### Summary
The Greek verb διχάζω (dicházō, `{{G1369}}`) fundamentally means "to make apart" or "to sunder," and figuratively, "to set at variance" or "to alienate." Its singular, yet highly significant, occurrence in [[Matthew 10:35]] reveals a crucial aspect of Jesus' ministry and the nature of the Gospel. In declaring, "I have come to set a man against his father," Jesus uses διχάζω (dicházō) to convey the profound and often painful divisions that His message inevitably creates, even within the most intimate family units. This is not a call to seek discord, but a realistic prophecy that the radical demands of discipleship will force a choice of ultimate allegiance, thereby separating those who embrace Christ from those who do not. The word underscores the high cost of following Jesus and the inherent, yet necessary, disruptive power of the Gospel in a fallen world, ultimately leading to true peace for those who submit to its claims.
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