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G1244 · Greek · New Testament
διαιρέω
Diaireō
Verb
To Divide/Distribute

Definition

The Greek verb diaireō means to divide, distribute, or apportion — to split something among parties. It appears in Luke 15:12 where the prodigal son demands his share of the inheritance ('divide the estate between us'), and in 1 Corinthians 12:11 where the Spirit 'apportions' gifts to each individually as He wills.

Usage & Theological Significance

The contrast between the two uses of diaireō is theologically rich. The prodigal's demand for division is an act of rebellion — wanting what is his without the relationship that gives it meaning. He wants the Father's goods without the Father. The Spirit's apportioning of gifts is the opposite: a gracious, sovereign distribution to each member of the body for the common good. The same word — division/distribution — can describe either selfish grasping or gracious giving, rebellion against the Father or the Spirit's generosity flowing from the Father. The prodigal who demanded his share eventually returned to the Father Himself; we receive spiritual gifts not to hoard but to pour out in service.

Key Bible Verses

Luke 15:12 And the younger of them said to his father, 'Father, give me the share of property that is coming to me.' And he divided his property between them.
1 Corinthians 12:11 All these are empowered by one and the same Spirit, who apportions to each one individually as he wills.
Numbers 26:53 Among these the land shall be divided for inheritance according to the number of names.
Joshua 18:10 Joshua then cast lots for them in Shiloh before the LORD, and there Joshua apportioned the land to the people of Israel.
Acts 2:45 And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need.

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