διαφέρω (diapherō)
diapherō
to spread/surpass
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 13 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb diapherō literally means to carry through or about, but in Scripture it primarily describes surpassing others in quality or standing. It appears thirteen times in the New Testament, often highlighting how God’s creation exceeds human value. For instance, Jesus uses it to remind his listeners that birds are far more precious than they realize (Matthew 6:26), and he applies the same logic to humans being of greater worth than sparrows (Luke 12:7).
Its range extends beyond simple comparison to include carrying news abroad, as seen when the word about Paul and Barnabas spread through the whole region (Acts 13:49). In Galatians, Paul uses it impersonally to say that God shows no partiality, meaning such distinctions do not matter before Him (Galatians 2:6). The word captures a sense of excellence that sets one thing apart from another.
This term emphasizes inherent superiority rather than mere difference. It is used in contexts where value is being assessed, whether in nature or in social standing. By focusing on what makes something stand out, it directs attention to the source of that distinction. The consistent usage points to a reality where certain things hold more weight or glory than others.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Greek word diapherō often translates as being of greater value or surpassing others in quality. In Matthew 6:26, Jesus uses this term to remind us that we are far more precious to God than the birds of the air. This is not a call to pride, but an invitation to rest in the knowledge that your Creator sees you clearly and values you deeply.
It also describes how the message of Christ spreads widely, as seen in Acts 13:49 where the word was carried throughout the region. Whether it highlights our worth before God or the reach of His truth, this word points to something significant standing out from the ordinary. It invites us to see the extraordinary care woven into everyday life.
When we feel overlooked, remember that God’s assessment of your worth is absolute. You are not defined by human metrics but by His steadfast love. Let this truth anchor your heart today, bringing peace and confidence in who you are in Him.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 13 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- you are more valuable.1×
- may carry1×
- makes a difference;1×
- is more valuable1×
- he differs1×
- differs1×
- being superior1×
- being excellent,1×
- being driven about1×
- are worth more1×
- are valuable1×
- are more valuable1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- διαφέρετε3×
- διαφέρει3×
- διεφέρετο1×
- διενέγκῃ1×
- διαφέροντα,1×
- διαφέροντα1×
- διαφέρετε.¶1×
- διαφέρει·1×
- διαφερομένων1×
Key Verses
-
Matthew 6:26
See the birds of the sky, that they don’t sow, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns. Your heavenly Father feeds them. Aren’t you of much more value than they?
Jesus uses the word to assert that human beings hold far greater value in God's eyes than birds, which do not labor for their food.
-
Acts 13:49
The Lord’s word was spread abroad throughout all the region.
The term describes how the message about the Lord spread widely and effectively through the entire surrounding region.
-
Luke 12:7
But the very hairs of your head are all counted. Therefore don’t be afraid. You are of more value than many sparrows.
Jesus reinforces the value of every individual by noting that God counts even the hairs on our heads, making us more valuable than many sparrows.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does diapherō mean in the Bible?
How is diapherō different from other words for 'different'?
Where does this word appear in the New Testament?
Every Occurrence (13 verses across 8 books)
Matthew 3 verses
See the birds of the sky, that they don’t sow, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns. Your heavenly Father feeds…
Matthew 10:31Therefore don’t be afraid. You are of more value than many sparrows.
Matthew 12:12Of how much more value then is a man than a sheep! Therefore it is lawful to do good on the Sabbath day.”