διόρθωσις (diorthōsis)
diorthōsis
reformation
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun diorthōsis refers to a process of making something straight or correcting what has gone wrong. Its root idea involves setting things back into their proper alignment, whether describing physical limbs that have been misshapen or institutions that need reform. In the New Testament, it carries this sense of thorough correction and restoration.
This word appears in only two verses, highlighting its specific use for systemic improvement rather than personal piety. In Acts 24:3, Paul praises Governor Felix for his long history of administering justice and reforming the legal system for the Jewish nation. Similarly, Hebrews 9:10 uses it to describe the external regulations of the old covenant, which served as a temporary measure to correct behavior until a better arrangement arrived.
Unlike words that focus on inner spiritual change, diorthōsis often points to structural or legal adjustments. It suggests a practical fixing of broken systems, making them functional and upright again. The term reflects a tangible effort to restore order and fairness in public life.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word diorthōsis describes the act of setting something straight again. It is not about vague improvement but specific correction. When systems or structures go wrong, this term points to the practical work of fixing them. It brings order back to what was broken.
In Hebrews 9:10, we see this word applied to old regulations. These laws were temporary measures imposed until a time of reformation arrived. They served as a stopgap, correcting external behavior while pointing toward a deeper spiritual reality. This shows that God often uses practical steps to prepare us for greater truths.
For your life, this offers comfort. When things feel misaligned or unjust, remember that God is the one who ultimately restores order. You do not have to force every broken piece into place yourself. Trust in His timing and His power to bring true correction where it is needed most.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- of reformation1×
- excellent reforms1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- διορθώσεως1×
- διορθωμάτων1×
Key Verses
-
Hebrews 9:10
being only (with foods and drinks and various washings) fleshly ordinances, imposed until a time of reformation.
This verse identifies the Old Covenant regulations as temporary measures imposed specifically until a time of reformation arrived, highlighting their provisional nature.