διαιρέω (diaireō)
diaireō
to distribute
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb diaireō describes the act of dividing something into parts or distributing it among people. Its root combines a prefix meaning "through" with a word for "separation," creating a sense of breaking a whole into distinct pieces. In the New Testament, this term moves beyond simple physical cutting to focus on the allocation of resources or gifts.
Scripture uses this word in two notable contexts that highlight its practical application. In Luke 15:12, it describes the younger son requesting his share of the inheritance, effectively dividing the family estate. Similarly, 1 Corinthians 12:11 explains how spiritual gifts are distributed by the Spirit to each individual member, emphasizing that these abilities are apportioned deliberately rather than randomly.
Translators often render diaireō as "distribute" or "divide," depending on whether the context involves physical property or abstract blessings. The term underscores a process of separation that results in distinct portions being assigned to different recipients, reflecting an organized allocation rather than a chaotic split.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
When we think about sharing, it is easy to view resources as something to be hoarded or guarded. The Greek word diaireō reminds us that distribution is often an act of intentional care. In Luke 15:12, a son asks for his portion of the inheritance, and the father divides his property. This shows that giving can involve real, tangible assets being separated so each person has what they need to stand on their own.
Yet this word also points to something deeper than material wealth. In 1 Corinthians 12:11, the Spirit distributes spiritual gifts to each member as He desires. This means your unique abilities are not random accidents but deliberate assignments. You are given specific tools for a reason, just as the father carefully apportioned his estate.
Understanding this helps us see our lives differently. We are not meant to keep everything for ourselves but to recognize that what we have—whether time, talent, or treasure—is meant to be shared. This process of dividing and giving creates community and reflects a heart that trusts in provision rather than scarcity.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- he divided1×
- apportioning1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- διεῖλεν1×
- διαιροῦν1×
Key Verses
-
Luke 15:12
The younger of them said to his father, ‘Father, give me my share of your property.’ So he divided his livelihood between them.
This verse shows the word applied to physical inheritance, highlighting how division can be a formal transfer of ownership and responsibility.
-
I Corinthians 12:11
But the one and the same Spirit produces all of these, distributing to each one separately as he desires.
Here the term describes the Spirit's sovereign allocation of spiritual gifts, emphasizing that every ability is assigned deliberately for the common good.