ἀφορίζω
aphorizō
to separate
Lexicon Entry
Lexicon data from STEPBible TIPNR, Tyndale House, Cambridge. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
What Original Readers Understood
ExploredThe Greek word ἀφορίζω (aphorizō) means to separate or set apart. Its core function is to distinguish one thing from another, often with the intention of establishing boundaries or distinctions. This verb is used in various contexts throughout the Bible, indicating a range of actions from dividing physical territories to separating people or ideas. The occurrences of ἀφορίζω in the biblical text reveal a nuanced understanding of separation. Sometimes, it implies a clear distinction (e.g., separating land from another), while in other instances, it suggests setting apart for a specific purpose or relationship (e.g., separating a people from others to form a unique bond). This versatility of usage underscores the complexities of the idea of separation in the biblical worldview. The significance of ἀφορίζω lies in its implications for understanding social and spiritual dynamics. By examining how the word is used in the biblical text, we can gain insights into the ancient understanding of boundaries, identity, and relationship. The multiple occurrences of ἀφορίζω also hint at the multifaceted nature of separation, which can be both positive (e.g., setting apart holy things) and negative (e.g., separating people from a community).
Source data & methodology
Occurrences in Scripture
10 total occurrences across the text
So will it be in the end of the world. The angels will come and separate the wicked from among the righteous,
Matthew 25:32Before him all the nations will be gathered, and he will separate them one from another, as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats.
Matthew 25:32Before him all the nations will be gathered, and he will separate them one from another, as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats.
Luke 6:22Blessed are you when men hate you, and when they exclude and mock you, and throw out your name as evil, for the Son of Man’s sake.
Acts 13:2As they served the Lord and fasted, the Holy Spirit said, “Separate Barnabas and Saul for me, for the work to which I have called them.”
Acts 19:9But when some were hardened and disobedient, speaking evil of the Way before the multitude, he departed from them, and separated the disciples, reasoning daily in the school of Tyrannus.
Romans 1:1Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, set apart for the Good News of God,
2 Corinthians 6:17Therefore “ ‘Come out from among them, and be separate,’ says the Lord. ‘Touch no unclean thing. I will receive you.
Galatians 1:15But when it was the good pleasure of God, who separated me from my mother’s womb and called me through his grace
Galatians 2:12For before some people came from James, he ate with the Gentiles. But when they came, he drew back and separated himself, fearing those who were of the circumcision.