### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **haíresis**, represented by `{{G139}}`, properly signifies a **choice**. It appears **9 times** in **9 unique verses**. Its meaning extends from a party or **sect** to the concept of **disunion** and **heresy**, which is the Greek word itself.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G139}}` is used to identify distinct groups. It describes the "**sect** of the Sadducees" `{{G4523}}` [[Acts 5:17]] and the "**sect** of the Pharisees" `{{G5330}}` [[Acts 15:5]]. Paul notes that he lived according to the "most straitest **sect**" `{{G196}}` of the Jewish religion `{{G2356}}` [[Acts 26:5]]. The word is also used pejoratively, as an accusation against early Christians, who are called the "**sect** of the Nazarenes" `{{G3480}}` [[Acts 24:5]] and a **sect** that is "spoken against" `{{G483}}` everywhere [[Acts 28:22]]. Paul acknowledges this when he confesses that he worships God `{{G2316}}` "after the way which they call **heresy**" [[Acts 24:14]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand on the themes of division and faction:
* `{{G1370}}` **dichostasía** (sedition): This word for **disunion** or **dissension** is listed alongside heresies as a work of the flesh that causes division [[Galatians 5:20]].
* `{{G2052}}` **eritheía** (strife): Meaning **faction** or **intrigue**, it appears with heresies in a list of behaviors that are contentious and disruptive [[Galatians 5:20]].
* `{{G4714}}` **stásis** (sedition): This term for an **uprising** or **controversy** is used when Paul is accused of being a mover of **sedition** and a ringleader `{{G4414}}` of a **sect** [[Acts 24:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G139}}` is significant, often marking a departure from unity and truth.
* **A Work of the Flesh:** **Heresies** are explicitly listed among the works of the flesh, alongside `{{G1495}} idolatry`, `{{G2054}} variance`, and `{{G1370}} seditions`, representing behavior contrary to the Spirit [[Galatians 5:20]].
* **Destructive Doctrine:** The most severe application of the term is found in connection with false teachers `{{G5572}}` who "privily shall bring in damnable **heresies**" `{{G139}}`. These teachings are characterized by "denying the Lord that bought them" `{{G1203}}` and lead to "swift destruction" `{{G684}}` [[2 Peter 2:1]].
* **A Revealing Test:** In a different context, the presence of **heresies** is presented as a necessity. It is stated that "there must be also **heresies** among you," for the purpose that those who are "approved" `{{G1384}}` may be made "manifest" `{{G5318}}` [[1 Corinthians 11:19]].
### Summary
In summary, **haíresis** `{{G139}}` evolves from a simple descriptor of a chosen party or **sect**, such as the Pharisees `{{G5330}}` or Sadducees `{{G4523}}`, into a term freighted with theological danger. It ultimately denotes a conscious choice that results in destructive disunion, characterized by false doctrine that denies the Lord. The term serves as a stark warning against divisions that lead believers away from the truth and into destruction `{{G684}}` [[2 Peter 2:1]].
TRV