διασκορπίζω

I scatter, winnow, disperse, waste

Definition

The verb διασκορπίζω primarily means 'to scatter' or 'to disperse,' often with a sense of forceful separation. In a literal sense, it describes the scattering of people, as when Jesus predicts his disciples will be scattered like sheep (Matthew 26:31, Mark 14:27). In a metaphorical or economic sense, it means 'to squander' or 'waste,' as seen in the parables of the talents and the prodigal son, where resources are foolishly dissipated (Matthew 25:24, 26; Luke 15:13; Luke 16:1). A positive, redemptive sense appears in John 11:52, where Jesus' death gathers God's scattered children.

Biblical Usage

Used 9 times in the New Testament, primarily in the Gospels. It appears in Jesus' parables about stewardship and judgment (Matthew 25, Luke 15-16), in predictions of the disciples' desertion (Matthew 26:31, Mark 14:27), in Mary's song about God scattering the proud (Luke 1:51), and in John's theological statement about Jesus' unifying death (John 11:52). The usage shifts from negative (squandering, desertion) to a unique positive outcome in John.

Etymology

Compound word from διά (dia, 'through' or 'asunder') and σκορπίζω (skorpizō, 'to scatter'). The root σκορπίζω is related to σκόρπιον (skorpion), perhaps evoking the idea of a scorpion's sting causing dispersal. The prefix διά intensifies the sense of thorough scattering or dispersion.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it captures both human failure and divine purpose. It illustrates human sin in wasting God's gifts and abandoning Christ, yet in John 11:52, it is reversed by Jesus' atoning work, which gathers the scattered. This enriches reading by showing how God's plan transforms scattering into gathering, a key theme of redemption.

In an agrarian society, 'scattering' seed or winnowing grain was a familiar image. The economic sense of 'squandering' would resonate in a culture where family inheritance was a primary form of wealth and its loss a grave dishonor. The scattering of a flock without a shepherd was a proverbial image of vulnerability and chaos.

σκορπίζω (skorpizō, G4650) — the simpler root, meaning 'to scatter' without the intensive prefix. λυμαίνω (lymainō, G3075) — to destroy or ruin, focusing on damage rather than dispersal. διασπείρω (diaspeirō, G1289) — to scatter abroad, often used of the dispersion of people (e.g., Acts 8:1, 11:19).

Word Details

Scripture References