διαμερισμός

breaking up, discord, hostility

Definition

διαμερισμός refers to a division, separation, or breaking apart, often implying conflict or discord. In its single New Testament occurrence in Luke 12:51, Jesus uses it to describe the profound division and hostility His message will bring, even within families. The word carries the sense of a sharp, disruptive split, not merely a physical partition but a relational fracture. It denotes the active state of being divided against one another, resulting in strife and opposition.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in Luke 12:51. Jesus employs it rhetorically to correct the expectation that He came to bring universal peace on earth, stating instead, 'Do you think that I have come to give peace on earth? No, I tell you, but rather division (διαμερισμός).' It is used in a prophetic and eschatological context, explaining the societal and familial conflict that will arise from allegiance to Him versus rejection of His message.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition διά (dia, meaning 'through' or 'asunder') and the root related to μερίζω (merizō, 'to divide' or 'apportion'). It is built on the noun μέρος (meros, 'part' or 'share'). Thus, διαμερισμός literally means 'a dividing through' or 'a thorough separation.' It intensifies the idea of division, implying a complete and often hostile splitting apart.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it captures the divisive effect of the gospel and the person of Jesus Christ. It underscores the biblical theme that truth demands a choice, and that choice can create profound relational divisions (Matthew 10:34-36). It highlights the cost of discipleship and the reality that following Christ can lead to conflict with the world and even within one's own household, emphasizing the ultimate allegiance required by the Kingdom of God.

In a 1st-century Mediterranean context centered on strong family and kinship loyalty (kinship as a primary social structure), Jesus' declaration of causing διαμερισμός would have been shocking and counter-cultural. Peace (εἰρήνη) within the household and community was a supreme social good. Jesus' statement deliberately subverts this expectation, placing loyalty to God and His Messiah above even the most sacred earthly bonds, which was a radical and disruptive concept.

σχίσμα (schisma, G4978) — a split or tear, often used for factions or divisions within a group (e.g., 1 Corinthians 1:10). μερισμός (merismos, G3311) — a division or distribution, can be neutral (e.g., Hebrews 4:12). διχοστασία (dichostasia, G1370) — discord, dissension, strife (e.g., Romans 16:17).

Word Details

Scripture References