ἀποδιορίζω (apodiorizō)
apodiorizō
to divide
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb apodiorizō means to mark off boundaries or create clear distinctions between things. Its root combines a prefix indicating separation with a word for "limit" or "boundary," literally suggesting the act of drawing lines that divide one thing from another. In Scripture, this term appears only once, in Jude 1:19, where it describes the divisive nature of certain individuals within the community.
Jude uses this word to characterize people who create invidious distinctions, effectively separating themselves or others into opposing groups. Rather than a neutral act of categorization, the context implies a harmful splitting that disrupts unity. The sources note that this usage aligns with making logical or social separations that lead to factionalism.
This single occurrence highlights how language about boundaries can serve division rather than order. By using a term rooted in marking limits, Jude emphasizes that these individuals are actively carving out separate spaces for themselves, undermining the shared life of the faith community. The word’s rarity underscores the specific gravity of this kind of social fracture.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word apodiorizō paints a vivid picture of drawing sharp lines between people. In Jude’s letter, it describes those who create harmful divisions within the community. This is not about healthy boundaries or clear roles, but about splitting groups and fostering factionalism. It reminds us that unity in Christ requires more than just shared belief; it demands a genuine effort to bridge gaps rather than widen them.
When we encounter conflict, it can be tempting to mark off 'us' versus 'them.' However, this word warns against such divisive behavior. Instead of carving out separate spaces for ourselves, we are called to maintain the bond of peace. This means actively resisting the urge to judge others or create invidious distinctions that disrupt the shared life of faith.
May you find strength in the call to unity. Let your actions reflect a heart that seeks to bring people together, not pull them apart. In a world often divided by differences, be a person who builds bridges and fosters understanding.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- causing divisions,1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἀποδιορίζοντες,1×
Key Verses
-
Jude 1:19
These are those who cause divisions and are sensual, not having the Spirit.
This verse uses apodiorizō to describe individuals who actively create divisions within the community, highlighting the word's negative connotation of harmful splitting rather than neutral categorization.