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.
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.
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.
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.
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