Transliteration: diaíresis (pronounced dee-AY-re-sis)
Part of Speech: Feminine Noun

The Greek word διαίρεσις (diaíresis) originates from the verb διαιρέω (diairéō), which means “to divide” or “to separate.” The noun form diaíresis thus carries the meaning of a division, separation, or distribution. It is a term that can refer to the act of dividing or the resulting state of being divided. In classical and biblical Greek, it is often used to describe distinctions, separations, or classifications within various contexts, including philosophical discussions, legal distinctions, or the organization of groups or categories.

Scripture References

The word διαίρεσις appears in the New Testament, emphasizing its theological significance:

1. 1 Corinthians 12:4 (ESV): “Now there are varieties (diaíresis) of gifts, but the same Spirit.”

In this verse, Paul uses diaíresis to highlight the diversity of spiritual gifts given to believers, while emphasizing the unity brought about by the same Holy Spirit.

2. 1 Corinthians 12:5 (ESV): “And there are varieties (diaíresis) of service, but the same Lord.”

Here, diaíresis is used to describe the various types of ministries or services within the church, again underscoring the concept of diversity within unity.

3. 1 Corinthians 12:6 (ESV): “And there are varieties (diaíresis) of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone.”

In this context, diaíresis refers to different kinds of workings or operations within the body of Christ, all orchestrated by the same God.

Detailed Lexicon Description

BDAG (Bauer-Danker-Arndt-Gingrich) defines diaíresis as a division or distribution, particularly in contexts where various elements are distinguished from each other. BDAG notes that in 1 Corinthians 12, diaíresis is used to describe the diversity of spiritual gifts, ministries, and operations within the Christian community. The term highlights the differences in function while affirming the unity of purpose and origin in the work of God.

Thayer’s Greek Lexicon emphasizes the role of diaíresis in distinguishing between different kinds of spiritual gifts, services, and workings. Thayer’s points out that the term does not imply division in a negative sense but rather an organized differentiation that serves a unified purpose within the body of Christ.

Vines Expository Dictionary similarly discusses diaíresis as it relates to the variety of spiritual gifts and ministries. Vines highlights that the term is meant to convey the idea of a harmonious diversity, where different gifts and services contribute to the overall functioning and well-being of the church.

Usage in Classical Greek Literature

1. Plato, Phaedrus 266b: Plato uses diaíresis to discuss the process of dividing concepts or ideas in order to understand them better. In philosophical discourse, diaíresis is an important method for categorizing and analyzing complex ideas.
2. Aristotle, Metaphysics 1045a: Aristotle employs diaíresis in the context of distinguishing between different kinds of substances or essences. Here, the term is used to classify and separate different categories of being.
3. Polybius, Histories 6.11: Polybius uses diaíresis to describe the division of powers within a government structure, emphasizing the balance and distribution of authority among various branches.

Summary

The Greek noun διαίρεσις (G1243) carries the primary meaning of “division” or “distribution,” stemming from the verb διαιρέω, meaning “to divide.” In the New Testament, diaíresis is used in 1 Corinthians 12 to describe the variety of spiritual gifts, services, and activities within the Christian community, all given by the same Spirit, Lord, and God. This term underscores the idea of diversity within unity, highlighting the different roles and functions that contribute to the overall mission of the church. Lexicons such as BDAG, Thayer’s, and Vines provide detailed explanations of how diaíresis is used to convey the harmonious diversity in the body of Christ. In classical Greek literature, diaíresis was an important term in philosophical and political discussions, where it referred to the process of dividing and categorizing ideas, substances, or powers. Overall, diaíresis is a term that emphasizes the value of distinctions and diversity within a unified whole, whether in philosophical discourse or the functioning of the church.