Brief Overview of διχοστασία (G1370: dichostasia)

Word Details

• Transliteration: διχοστασία (dichostasia)
• Etymology: The word διχοστασία comes from the root “δίχα” (dicha), meaning “in two” or “apart,” combined with “στάσις” (stasis), meaning “a standing” or “a state of standing.” The combination suggests the idea of “standing apart” or “causing division.”
• Part of Speech: Noun (feminine)
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon

Primary Meanings

• Dissension: The primary meaning of διχοστασία is dissension or discord, referring to a state where division and disagreement prevail within a group or community.
• Division: The term can also denote division, particularly the splitting of a unified entity into opposing factions or groups.
• Schism: In some contexts, διχοστασία can refer to schism, especially within religious or philosophical communities, indicating a formal separation due to doctrinal differences.

Further Insights

• Morphology: The word διχοστασία is a feminine noun, formed by combining “δίχα” (apart) with “στάσις” (standing). This construction highlights the concept of a state or condition of being divided or separated, especially in a social or communal context.
• Grammatical Usage: As a noun, διχοστασία can be used to describe both the abstract concept of division and the concrete manifestation of discord or schism within a group. It is typically used in contexts where the unity of a group is threatened or broken.
• Cultural Context: In the context of ancient Greek society, unity was often highly valued, particularly within political, philosophical, and religious communities. The presence of διχοστασία would therefore be seen as a serious issue, potentially leading to significant consequences for the stability and cohesion of the group.

Lexicon Descriptions

BDAG (Bauer, Danker, Arndt, and Gingrich):

• BDAG defines διχοστασία as “dissension” or “discord,” with an emphasis on its use in contexts where a group is divided into opposing factions. It is noted for its application in situations where unity is disrupted by conflicting opinions or interests.
• Scripture Reference: Romans 16:17 – “Now I urge you, brethren, note those who cause divisions and offenses, contrary to the doctrine which you learned, and avoid them.”

Thayer’s Greek Lexicon:

• Thayer’s Lexicon describes διχοστασία as “dissension, division,” focusing on its meaning as a state of discord within a community. Thayer highlights its use in both secular and religious contexts, where it can refer to both physical and ideological divisions.
• Scripture Reference: Galatians 5:20 – “Idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions.”

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance:

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• Strong’s Concordance lists διχοστασία as “dissension” or “division,” emphasizing its role in causing splits within a community or group. It is often used in the New Testament to describe actions that lead to the breakdown of unity among believers.
• Scripture Reference: Romans 16:17

Vine’s Expository Dictionary:

• Vine’s Dictionary discusses διχοστασία in the context of its New Testament usage, particularly in reference to the divisions and discord that can arise within the Christian community. The term is highlighted as part of broader discussions on unity and conflict within the early church.
• Scripture Reference: Galatians 5:20

Usage in Classical Greek Literature

• Polybius’ Histories: In the historical writings of Polybius, the concept of διχοστασία might not be directly mentioned, but the idea of internal discord and division is a recurring theme, particularly in his accounts of political conflicts and the breakdown of alliances.
• Plutarch’s Lives: Plutarch’s biographies often explore the consequences of διχοστασία within political or military contexts, where leaders’ actions lead to division among their followers or within their states.
• Aristotle’s Politics: Aristotle discusses the dangers of διχοστασία, though not by name, in his analysis of political systems and the factors that lead to the dissolution of unity within a state or community.

Summary

The Greek noun διχοστασία (G1370) carries the meaning of dissension, division, or schism. It is derived from the combination of “δίχα” (apart) and “στάσις” (standing), reflecting the idea of standing apart or being in a state of division. In the New Testament, διχοστασία is used to describe the divisions that can arise within a community, particularly in contexts where unity is disrupted by conflicting opinions or interests. The word is a powerful reminder of the dangers of discord and the importance of maintaining unity within any group, whether in ancient times or today. Through its use in classical Greek literature and philosophical discourse, διχοστασία is seen as a significant threat to the stability and harmony of both political and social entities.