μερίζω

I divide, part, share

Definition

The verb μερίζω primarily means 'to divide, distribute, or share.' In its most literal sense, it refers to the physical act of dividing something into parts, such as food (Mark 6:41). It can also describe the act of apportioning or distributing something, like an inheritance (Luke 12:13). In a more figurative or negative sense, it is used to describe causing division or strife, as seen when Jesus says a kingdom divided against itself cannot stand (Matthew 12:25-26). In the middle voice, it carries the sense of sharing in or partaking of something that has been divided.

Biblical Usage

Μερίζω appears 13 times in the New Testament, used in Gospels, Acts, and Epistles. In the Synoptic Gospels, it is used both literally for dividing loaves (Mark 6:41) and figuratively for political or spiritual division (Matthew 12:25-26; Mark 3:24-26). In Luke 12:13, it appears in a legal dispute over an inheritance. In the Epistles, Paul uses it positively to describe God apportioning faith (Romans 12:3) and the distribution of spiritual gifts (1 Corinthians 7:17, 7:34).

Etymology

Μερίζω derives from the noun μέρος (meros, G3313), meaning 'a part, share, or portion.' It is a verb formed from this root, literally meaning 'to make into parts' or 'to apportion.' This connection is clear in its usage; to μερίζω something is to deal with it in terms of its μέρη (parts). Cognates include μερισμός (merismos, G3311), meaning 'a dividing or distribution,' and μερίς (meris, G3310), meaning 'a share or portion.'

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it touches on themes of unity, division, and divine apportionment. Jesus uses it to warn against the self-destruction of Satan's kingdom and any divided house (Matthew 12:25-26), highlighting the importance of spiritual unity. Conversely, Paul uses it to describe God's gracious and sovereign act in distributing faith and spiritual gifts to believers (Romans 12:3; 1 Corinthians 7:17). Understanding this range—from destructive division to gracious distribution—enriches our reading of passages on church unity and God's gifts.

In the 1st-century context, the division of inheritance (Luke 12:13) was a major familial and legal concern, often requiring rabbinic arbitration. The metaphor of a divided kingdom or household (Matthew 12:25) would resonate in a politically fragmented world under Roman rule, where internal strife weakened nations. The sharing of food (Mark 6:41) reflects communal meal practices central to social and religious life.

διαιρέω (diaireō, G1244) — emphasizes dividing into sections or distinguishing; often more analytical. διαμερίζω (diamerizō, G1266) — intensive form, often with a sense of dividing up thoroughly or dispersing, sometimes used for dividing possessions (Luke 15:12) or even the garments of Jesus (John 19:24). μερίς (meris, G3310) — the noun 'share' or 'portion,' the result of the action of μερίζω.

Word Details

Scripture References