apparently from the same as σκορπίος (through the idea of penetrating); to dissipate, i.e. (figuratively) put to flight, waste, be liberal:--disperse abroad, scatter (abroad).
Transliteration:skorpízō
Pronunciation:skor-pid'-zo
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb σκορπίζω (skorpízō, `{{G4650}}`) carries the fundamental meaning of "to scatter" or "to disperse." While its proposed etymological link to σκορπίος (skorpios, "scorpion") suggesting a "penetrating" or "stinging" action leading to dispersion is intriguing, the primary focus of the word in biblical usage is the resultant state of being spread out or dissipated. Its semantic range extends beyond mere physical dispersion to encompass several significant figurative applications:
1. **Physical Scattering:** To cause a group or collection of things to separate and spread in various directions, as in the scattering of sheep.
2. **Dissipation/Waste:** To squander or consume resources carelessly, leading to their loss or dispersal, as seen in the wasting of an inheritance.
3. **Putting to Flight:** To cause enemies or opponents to flee in disarray, effectively scattering them.
4. **Generous Giving:** In a notable positive extension, skorpízō can describe the act of distributing resources liberally and widely, particularly to the poor, signifying open-handed generosity.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term σκορπίζω (skorpízō, `{{G4650}}`) appears several times in the New Testament, illustrating its diverse applications:
* **Scattering of the Flock:** In the Passion narratives, Jesus quotes Zechariah 13:7, stating, "I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock will be σκορπίζω (scattered)" ([[Matthew 26:31]]; cf. [[Mark 14:27]]). This prophecy highlights the vulnerability of the disciples and their flight upon Jesus' arrest, emphasizing the disarray that follows the removal of leadership.
* **The "Gather vs. Scatter" Antithesis:** A profound theological statement is found in Jesus' words: "Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not συνάγω (gather) with me σκορπίζω (scatters)" ([[Matthew 12:30]]; cf. [[Luke 11:23]]). This antithesis establishes a clear dichotomy: alignment with Christ leads to unity and gathering, while opposition or neutrality results in fragmentation and dispersion. There is no middle ground in the Kingdom of God.
* **Squandering Resources:** The parable of the Prodigal Son uses σκορπίζω to describe the younger son who "squandered [his property] in dissolute living" ([[Luke 15:13]]). Here, the word denotes the careless and wasteful dissipation of inherited wealth, leading to ruin.
* **Generous Giving:** Strikingly, σκορπίζω is employed in a positive sense when quoting [[Psalm 112:9]] in [[2 Corinthians 9:9]]: "He has σκορπίζω (scattered abroad); he has given to the poor; his righteousness endures forever." This usage powerfully illustrates that the "scattering" of resources through generous giving is not waste but an act of righteousness that yields lasting spiritual fruit and divine blessing. It transforms the idea of dispersion from negative loss to positive distribution.
* **Disciples' Dispersion:** Jesus foretells the disciples' reaction to His arrest: "Indeed, the hour is coming, and has now come, when you will be σκορπίζω (scattered), each to his own home, and leave me alone" ([[John 16:32]]). This again points to the physical and emotional dispersal of His followers under duress.
### Related Words & Concepts
σκορπίζω (skorpízō, `{{G4650}}`) is often understood in relation to its antonym and other related terms:
* **Antonym: συνάγω (synagō, `{{G4863}}`):** To gather, collect, assemble. This word stands in direct opposition to σκορπίζω, particularly in the crucial "gather vs. scatter" statements of Jesus ([[Matthew 12:30]], [[Luke 11:23]]), highlighting the fundamental choice between unity in Christ and fragmentation apart from Him.
* **Related Verb: διασκορπίζω (diaskorpizō, `{{G1287}}`):** This is an intensive form of σκορπίζω, meaning "to thoroughly scatter" or "to completely disperse." While often used interchangeably, διασκορπίζω can emphasize a more complete or widespread dispersion.
* **Related Noun: διασπορά (diaspora, `{{G1290}}`):** Meaning "dispersion" or "scattering," this noun refers specifically to the Jewish communities living outside of Palestine, having been dispersed from their homeland. This concept of diaspora is a direct result of historical "scattering."
* **Concepts:** The word σκορπίζω evokes themes of unity and disunity, order and chaos, stewardship and waste, and the nature of divine judgment versus divine blessing. It touches upon the vulnerability of a leaderless flock and the righteous act of open-handed generosity.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of σκορπίζω (skorpízō, `{{G4650}}`) is multifaceted:
1. **The Kingdom's Nature:** The "gather vs. scatter" antithesis ([[Matthew 12:30]]) is paramount. It reveals that the Kingdom of God is inherently a unifying force, drawing people together under Christ's headship. Any action or stance that does not actively contribute to this divine gathering is, by default, an act of scattering and opposition to God's purposes. This principle underscores the necessity of allegiance and active participation in Christ's mission.
2. **Leadership and Community:** The scattering of the sheep when the shepherd is struck ([[Matthew 26:31]]) powerfully illustrates the fragility of a community without its proper leader. It highlights the protective and unifying role of the shepherd (Christ) and the vulnerability of the flock when that leadership is challenged or removed. This speaks to the essential nature of Christ's headship over the Church.
3. **Stewardship and Generosity:** The use of σκορπίζω in [[Luke 15:13]] as "squandering" serves as a warning against irresponsible stewardship of resources. Conversely, its positive use in [[2 Corinthians 9:9]] elevates generous giving to a righteous act. This demonstrates a profound theological paradox: true abundance and lasting righteousness come not from hoarding but from "scattering" (distributing) one's resources for the benefit of others, mirroring God's own generous nature. This concept aligns with the principle of sowing and reaping, where scattering seed leads to a harvest.
4. **Consequences of Disobedience:** While not always explicitly stated with σκορπίζω, the broader biblical concept of "scattering" is often associated with divine judgment and the consequences of rebellion or covenant breaking, leading to the dispersion of a people (e.g., Israel's exile). The word thus carries an implicit sense of fragmentation as a result of separation from God.
### Summary
σκορπίζω (skorpízō, `{{G4650}}`) is a versatile Greek verb meaning "to scatter" or "to disperse." Its semantic range extends from literal physical scattering (e.g., sheep without a shepherd) to figurative applications such as squandering resources and, notably, the righteous act of generous giving. Theologically, σκορπίζω is central to understanding the nature of the Kingdom of God, particularly through the stark antithesis that "whoever is not with me scatters" ([[Matthew 12:30]]), emphasizing that true unity and purpose are found only in alignment with Christ. It also highlights the vulnerability of a community without its leader and transforms the concept of dispersion from a negative act of waste into a positive expression of righteousness and divine blessing when applied to liberal giving. The word thus encapsulates both the destructive power of disunity and the life-giving potential of self-giving generosity.
TRV