### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **chōrízō**, represented by `{{G5563}}`, is used to mean **to place room between, i.e. part**. It appears 18 times across 12 unique verses in the Bible. The term carries the sense of division, with translations including **depart**, **put asunder**, and **separate**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G5563}}` is applied in several distinct contexts. It conveys a strong prohibition against divorce, as seen in the command, "What therefore God hath joined together, let not man **put asunder**" [[Matthew 19:6]]. The word is also used to express the unbreakable bond between God and believers, with the apostle Paul asking what could possibly **separate** them from Christ's love [[Romans 8:35]]. On a more literal level, it describes physical movement, such as the apostles being commanded not to **depart** from Jerusalem [[Acts 1:4]] or Paul's departure from Athens [[Acts 18:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide contrast and clarify the meaning of separation:
* `{{G4801}}` **syzeúgnymi** (to yoke together, i.e. (figuratively) conjoin (in marriage)): This is the direct opposite of `{{G5563}}` in the context of marriage, highlighting the divine act of union that man is forbidden to break [[Matthew 19:6]].
* `{{G2644}}` **katallássō** (to change mutually, i.e. (figuratively) to compound a difference): In cases of marital departure, this word presents the alternative to separation: to **be reconciled** to her husband [[1 Corinthians 7:11]].
* `{{G3306}}` **ménō** (to stay (in a given place, state, relation or expectancy)): This word offers a direct contrast to departure. If a wife does **depart**, she is instructed to **remain** unmarried, underscoring a change in state from the marital union [[1 Corinthians 7:11]].
* `{{G1299}}` **diatássō** (to arrange thoroughly, i.e. (specially) institute, prescribe, etc.): This term can be the cause of a separation, as when Claudius **had commanded** all Jews to **depart** from Rome [[Acts 18:2]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5563}}` is significant, particularly in defining relationships—both human and divine.
* **Divine Command on Marriage:** The use of **put asunder** `{{G5563}}` establishes a clear theological principle regarding the permanence of marriage. The union that God **hath joined together** `{{G4801}}` is not to be dissolved by human action [[Mark 10:9]].
* **The Believer's Eternal Security:** The word is central to one of Scripture's most powerful assurances. Paul uses it to declare that no external force—neither **tribulation** `{{G2347}}` nor **persecution** `{{G1375}}`, nor **height** `{{G5313}}` nor **depth** `{{G899}}`—can **separate** a believer from the love of God in Christ Jesus ([[Romans 8:35]], [[Romans 8:39]]).
* **Christ's Priestly Holiness:** The term is used to describe the unique status of Jesus as High Priest, who is **separate** from sinners. This separation signifies his moral perfection and sinless nature, which qualifies him for his role [[Hebrews 7:26]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5563}}` is a versatile word that moves from the literal to the theological. It describes physical **departure** [[Acts 18:1]], establishes the sacred prohibition to not **put asunder** a marriage [[Matthew 19:6]], and ultimately provides the framework for understanding the unbreakable spiritual union that believers have with God. Its use illustrates a core biblical theme: while human relationships and locations can be separated, the believer's relationship with God cannot.
TRV