διαστολή (diastolē)
diastolē
distinction
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 3 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun diastolē signifies a clear distinction or separation between things. In the New Testament, it appears in only three verses, primarily within Paul’s letters to Romans and Corinthians. The word carries the sense of setting boundaries that allow for differentiation, whether between groups of people or among physical objects.
Paul uses this term to highlight specific contrasts. In Romans 3:22 and 10:12, he describes a distinction in how righteousness is accessed, noting that there is no difference before God between Jew and Gentile. Later, in 1 Corinthians 14:7, he applies the concept to music, arguing that if instruments like the flute or harp do not produce a clear diastolē, their notes will be indistinguishable and meaningless to the listener.
The word derives from the verb diastellō, which means to separate or appoint. Its usage in 1 Corinthians provides a vivid image: just as distinct musical tones are necessary for a melody to be recognized, clear distinctions are required for communication and understanding to function effectively. The term emphasizes clarity over ambiguity.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word diastolē points to a clear line drawn between things so they can be recognized for what they are. In our daily lives, we often struggle with ambiguity, where roles blur and truths become unclear. This Greek term reminds us that clarity is not just an intellectual exercise but a gift that helps us navigate relationships and understand God’s heart.
Paul uses this concept to show that before God, the line between Jew and Gentile has been erased in Christ (Romans 3:22). Yet he also uses it to teach practical wisdom, noting that music requires distinct notes to be heard as a melody (1 Corinthians 14:7). This balance shows that while God breaks down walls of division among people, He still values the clear distinctions that make communication and order possible.
When you seek to understand Scripture or serve others, ask for the grace to see these boundaries clearly. Let your life reflect both the unity we share in Christ and the distinct ways we are called to love and communicate with those around us.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- distinction.1×
- distinction1×
- difference1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- διαστολή.1×
- διαστολὴν1×
- διαστολὴ1×
Key Verses
-
Romans 3:22
even the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ to all and on all those who believe. For there is no distinction,
This verse uses the term to declare that God’s righteousness is available to everyone, removing any spiritual barrier between Jew and Gentile.
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Romans 10:12
For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; for the same Lord is Lord of all, and is rich to all who call on him.
Here the distinction is explicitly stated as non-existent between ethnic groups, emphasizing God’s equal richness toward all who call on Him.
-
I Corinthians 14:7
Even lifeless things that make a sound, whether pipe or harp, if they didn’t give a distinction in the sounds, how would it be known what is piped or harped?
Paul applies the word to music, arguing that without clear differences in sound, a melody cannot be recognized or understood by the listener.