σχίσμα (schisma)
schisma
split
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 8 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun schisma refers to a split or tear, originating from the idea of ripping fabric apart. In the New Testament, it carries both literal and metaphorical weight. Literally, it describes the damage done when new wine is poured into old wineskins, causing them to burst (Matthew 9:17; Mark 2:22). Metaphorically, it signifies a division or dissension within a community, such as the factions forming in the Corinthian church or the disputes arising from Jesus’ teachings (1 Corinthians 1:10; John 7:43).
Its root verb, schizō, means to cleave or divide. This etymology highlights that a schisma is not merely a difference of opinion but a rupture in unity. The word appears eight times in the New Testament, primarily in John and 1 Corinthians, where it underscores the danger of internal conflict. Translators often render it as "division" or "split," capturing the sense of something being torn apart from its original wholeness.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Greek word schisma describes a tear or split, originally referring to fabric ripping apart. In the New Testament, it captures both physical damage and social rupture. Jesus used the image of old wineskins bursting to show that new life cannot be forced into old structures without causing harm. This metaphor reminds us that some changes require fresh approaches rather than patching what is worn out.
When applied to community life, schisma warns against the fractures that divide believers. Paul urged the Corinthians to avoid these splits, emphasizing that unity comes from sharing the same mind and judgment in Christ. The word highlights how division weakens the body of believers, making it harder for each member to care for one another effectively.
Understanding this term helps us recognize the seriousness of discord in our relationships. It invites us to prioritize reconciliation and wholeness over personal opinions or factions. By seeking unity, we reflect the peace that Christ offers, allowing our communities to remain strong and supportive for all who are part of them.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 8 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- division2×
- tear1×
- divisions,1×
- divisions1×
- a tear1×
- Division1×
- A division1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- σχίσμα4×
- Σχίσμα2×
- σχίσματα,1×
- σχίσματα1×
Key Verses
-
I Corinthians 1:10
Now I beg you, brothers, through the name of our Lord, Jesus Christ, that you all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfected together in the same mind and in the same judgment.
Paul uses this word to command unity, showing that schisma threatens the shared mind and judgment believers have in Christ.
-
John 7:43
So a division arose in the multitude because of him.
This occurrence shows how Jesus' teaching naturally creates a division among people, highlighting the divisive impact of His message.
-
I Corinthians 12:25
that there should be no division in the body, but that the members should have the same care for one another.
Paul states that no schisma should exist in the body, linking the absence of division directly to mutual care among members.
-
Matthew 9:16
No one puts a piece of unshrunk cloth on an old garment; for the patch would tear away from the garment, and a worse hole is made.
Jesus uses this concept metaphorically to explain that new wine cannot be contained by old wineskins without causing a tear.