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G1257 · Greek · New Testament
διαλείπω
Dialeipō
Verb
To Cease / To Leave Off / To Pause

Definition

The Greek verb dialeipō (διαλείπω) is a compound of dia (through) and leipō (to leave/fail), meaning to cease, to leave off, or to stop for an interval. It occurs in Luke 7:45, where Jesus contrasts the sinful woman's unceasing kiss on His feet with the Pharisee Simon's failure to greet Him: 'She has not ceased (dialeipō) kissing my feet from the time I came in.'

Usage & Theological Significance

Luke 7:45 is a profound study in the unceasing nature of worship born from forgiven love. The woman who was a 'sinner' could not stop. Simon, the respectable Pharisee, had not started. Jesus uses dialeipō — she did not pause, did not interrupt, did not cease — to highlight extravagant devotion. This connects to Paul's command to 'pray without ceasing' (1 Thessalonians 5:17, adialeiptos — the negative form) and to 'continue steadfastly in prayer' (Romans 12:12). The theology: those who have been forgiven much, love much, and love expressed in worship does not quit.

Key Bible Verses

Luke 7:45 You gave me no kiss, but from the time I came in she has not ceased (dialeipō) to kiss my feet.
Luke 7:47 Therefore I tell you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven — for she loved much.
1 Thessalonians 5:17 Pray without ceasing.
Romans 12:12 Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.
Psalm 34:1 I will bless the LORD at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth.

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