διαφθορά (diaphthora)
diaphthora
decay
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 6 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun diaphthora describes a state of ruin or decay, specifically referring to the physical decomposition of a body after death. In the New Testament, it carries the weight of irreversible destruction, marking the end of earthly life and the turning toward dust. This term is rare, appearing only six times, with a significant concentration in the Book of Acts where it serves as a theological anchor for the resurrection hope.
Its usage highlights a stark contrast between mortality and eternal life. In Acts 2:27 and 13:34-37, Peter cites Psalm 16 to argue that the Messiah would not experience this decay, distinguishing Jesus from other figures who died and were buried. The sources note that this concept mirrors the Hebrew word sheol or destruction found in the Septuagint, emphasizing that death is not a permanent state for those promised resurrection.
Translators typically render diaphthora as "corruption" or "decay," capturing both the physical reality of rotting flesh and the finality of death. By focusing on this inevitable process, the text underscores the uniqueness of Christ’s victory over the grave, presenting His body as the exception to the universal rule of human decay.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word diaphthora reminds us that death is a real and heavy part of our human story. It describes the physical return to dust, the natural end of earthly life that every person faces. This reality can feel final and frightening, marking the limit of our time on earth. Yet, the New Testament uses this stark image not to leave us in despair, but to highlight a greater hope.
For Christians, the significance lies in what happens after decay. The resurrection of Jesus is presented as the unique exception to the rule of rotting flesh. Because God raised Him from the dead without seeing corruption, believers look forward to a life that death cannot touch. This promise offers comfort when we face loss or our own mortality.
Knowing that Christ conquered decay allows us to trust in His power over all things. It invites us to rest in the assurance that physical death is not the end of the story. The hope of resurrection stands as a firm anchor for faith, pointing toward eternal life with God.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 6 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- decay.3×
- decay;1×
- decay.’1×
- decay,1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- διαφθοράν.3×
- διαφθοράν·1×
- διαφθοράν.¶1×
- διαφθοράν,1×
Key Verses
-
Acts 2:27
because you will not leave my soul in Hades, neither will you allow your Holy One to see decay.
Peter uses this verse to show that the Messiah's soul would not remain abandoned in Hades, proving His victory over death.
-
Acts 13:36
For David, after he had in his own generation served the counsel of God, fell asleep, was laid with his fathers, and saw decay.
This occurrence contrasts David with Jesus by noting that David died and his body experienced decay, highlighting human mortality.
-
Acts 13:37
But he whom God raised up saw no decay.
Here the word confirms that Jesus, whom God raised, did not undergo corruption, serving as proof of His unique resurrection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does diaphthora mean in the Bible?
Why is this word important for understanding Jesus?
Where does this word appear most often?
Every Occurrence (6 verses across 1 books)
Acts 6 verses
because you will not leave my soul in Hades, neither will you allow your Holy One to see decay.
Acts 2:31he foreseeing this, spoke about the resurrection of the Christ, that his soul wasn’t left in Hades, and his flesh…
Acts 13:34“Concerning that he raised him up from the dead, now no more to return to corruption, he has spoken thus: ‘I will give…
Acts 13:35Therefore he says also in another psalm, ‘You will not allow your Holy One to see decay.’
Acts 13:36For David, after he had in his own generation served the counsel of God, fell asleep, was laid with his fathers, and…
Acts 13:37But he whom God raised up saw no decay.