### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **meristḗs**, represented by `{{G3312}}`, is a term for an **apportioner** or **divider**. It appears only **1 time** across **1 unique verse**, indicating a very specific and focused usage within the biblical text. The word's root suggests the action of apportioning or acting as an administrator.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The only use of **meristḗs** is found in the Gospel of Luke. In this passage, Jesus is confronted by a man who wants him to settle an inheritance dispute. Jesus rebuffs this request by asking, “Man, who made me a judge or a **divider** over you?” [[Luke 12:14]]. Here, the word is used to describe a secular role, someone designated to apportion assets, and is set in parallel with the role of a judge.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the context of `{{G3312}}`:
* `{{G1348}}` **dikastḗs** (judge): This word is used in direct parallel with **meristḗs** in its only appearance [[Luke 12:14]]. It refers to a judger and appears in similar contexts where authority is questioned ([[Acts 7:27]], [[Acts 7:35]]).
* `{{G2525}}` **kathístēmi** (appoint, make, ordain, set): This is the verb used to ask who has the authority to “make” someone a **divider** [[Luke 12:14]]. It refers to the act of designating or constituting someone in a position of authority, such as making someone a ruler over a household [[Matthew 24:45]] or appointing men over a specific business [[Acts 6:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3312}}` comes from its unique context:
* **Distinction of Mission:** By rejecting the title of **divider**, Jesus makes a clear distinction between his purpose and the role of a secular administrator or judge responsible for earthly inheritances [[Luke 12:14]].
* **Question of Authority:** The framing of the response, "who made me a... **divider**?", utilizes the verb `{{G2525}}` for "made" or "appointed". This shifts the focus to the source of authority, implicitly stating that settling civil disputes was not part of the mission for which he was sent.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3312}}` or **meristḗs**, is a highly specific term for a **divider**, appearing just once in Scripture. Its only context in [[Luke 12:14]] casts it as a secular, administrative role concerned with apportioning inheritances, a function Jesus explicitly rejects. Paired with **dikastḗs** (judge), its meaning is confined to civil arbitration. The importance of the word lies not in its definition, but in Jesus's refusal to be defined by it, thereby distinguishing his mission from matters of worldly governance.
TRV