διαμερίζω (diamerizō)
diamerizō
to divide
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 11 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb diamerizō means to divide or distribute something into parts. In the New Testament, it appears in contexts ranging from the practical division of goods to the violent splitting of garments. Its core sense involves taking a whole and separating it into distinct portions, whether by human action or divine arrangement.
A key distinction lies in its usage for material distribution versus social division. It describes the Roman soldiers dividing Jesus’ clothes (Matthew 27:35) and the early church sharing possessions (Acts 2:45). Yet it also applies to internal conflict, as when Jesus speaks of a house being divided against itself (Luke 11:17), highlighting its power to describe both physical separation and relational fracture.
This word underscores the finality of division. Whether items are allocated or relationships are severed, diamerizō implies a clear break from unity. Its presence in Scripture often marks moments of significant change, where what was once whole is now split into separate entities.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word diamerizō describes the act of splitting something whole into parts. We see this in the stark reality of soldiers dividing Jesus’ clothes at the cross, fulfilling ancient prophecy. It also appears in the joyful sharing of the early church, where believers distributed their goods to meet each other’s needs. In both cases, the word marks a moment of significant transition, whether through loss or generosity.
Jesus also used this concept to warn about internal conflict, noting that a house divided against itself cannot stand. This reminds us that unity is fragile and requires intentional care. When we face division in our relationships or communities, this word invites us to reflect on the cost of separation and the value of reconciliation. It challenges us to consider how we handle what is shared with us.
Ultimately, this term highlights the finality of division. Whether items are allocated or relationships are severed, diamerizō implies a clear break from unity. Yet, in the context of the church, it also points to the beauty of mutual care. We are invited to use our resources not for self-preservation, but for the good of others, reflecting the love that binds us together.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 11 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- they divided2×
- they were dividing1×
- they divide for themselves1×
- is divided,1×
- having been divided1×
- do divide [it]1×
- dividing1×
- divided,1×
- They will be divided1×
- They divided1×
- Dividing1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- διεμερίσαντο3×
- διεμέριζον1×
- διεμερίσθη,1×
- διαμερίσατε1×
- διαμερίζονται1×
- διαμερισθήσονται,1×
- διαμερισθεῖσα1×
- διαμεριζόμενοι1×
- διαμεριζόμεναι1×
- διαμεμερισμένοι,1×
Key Verses
-
Matthew 27:35
When they had crucified him, they divided his clothing among them, casting lots,
This occurrence shows the fulfillment of prophecy as soldiers divide Jesus' garments, highlighting the humility and suffering of Christ.
-
Luke 11:17
But he, knowing their thoughts, said to them, “Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation. A house divided against itself falls.
Here Jesus uses the concept of division to argue against the accusation that He casts out demons by Satan's power, emphasizing logical consistency.
-
Acts 2:45
They sold their possessions and goods, and distributed them to all, according as anyone had need.
This verse illustrates the practical application of sharing, where believers distribute their possessions to ensure no one is in need.