### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **schísma**, represented by `{{G4978}}`, refers to a **split** or **gap**. It appears **8 times** in **8 unique verses**. The term is derived from σχίζω and can describe a literal **rent** or a figurative **division** or **schism**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G4978}}` is used in both literal and figurative contexts. Figuratively, it describes disagreements and disunity among people. Paul warns the Corinthian church against having **divisions** [[1 Corinthians 1:10]] and **schism** within the body [[1 Corinthians 12:25]]. Similarly, the Gospels record that a **division** occurred among the people and the Jews over Jesus's miracles and sayings ([[John 9:16]], [[John 7:43]], [[John 10:19]]). Literally, the word is used to describe the **rent** in an old garment when a new patch is applied, making the tear **worse** ([[Matthew 9:16]], [[Mark 2:21]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the concept of **schísma** by contrast or association:
* `{{G2675}}` **katartízō** (to complete thoroughly, i.e. repair... or adjust): This word is used as the direct solution to schism. Believers are called to be **perfectly joined together** to prevent **divisions** [[1 Corinthians 1:10]].
* `{{G3563}}` **noûs** (the intellect, i.e. mind... understanding): Unity is described as being of the same **mind**. A schism represents a fracture in this shared understanding and purpose within the church [[1 Corinthians 1:10]].
* `{{G5501}}` **cheírōn** (more evil or aggravated... worse): In the literal sense, this word describes the result of an improper repair, where the **rent** is made **worse** ([[Matthew 9:16]], [[Mark 2:21]]), illustrating how attempts to fix a problem can aggravate the division.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4978}}` is significant, highlighting the danger of internal conflict and the importance of unity.
* **Threat to Church Unity:** The word is used to explicitly condemn a state of disunity within the church. Paul's pleas in 1 Corinthians warn against **divisions** and **schism**, contrasting it with being **perfectly joined together** in one **mind** and **judgment** ([[1 Corinthians 1:10]], [[1 Corinthians 12:25]]).
* **Internal Strife:** The occurrences of **schísma** point to conflicts that arise from within a community. Whether it is among the brethren in the church at Corinth [[1 Corinthians 11:18]] or among the Jews reacting to Jesus [[John 10:19]], the term describes an internal fracture, not an external attack.
* **Reaction to Divine Revelation:** In the Gospel of John, **division** is shown to be a direct consequence of Jesus's words and works. The presence of Christ and His claims create a **division** among the people, separating those who are open to God's work from those who are not ([[John 7:43]], [[John 9:16]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4978}}` is a powerful word that signifies more than a simple disagreement. It denotes a fundamental **split** or **rent**, used literally for a tear in cloth and figuratively for **division** within a community. Its usage underscores the biblical emphasis on unity within the body of Christ and illustrates the divisive effect that truth can have when it confronts established opinions. The concept of **schísma** serves as a critical warning against internal disunity and a lens for understanding the conflicts that characterized the early church and the ministry of Jesus.
TRV