Lexical Summary diachórizó: To separate, to divide, to part Original Word: διαχωρίζω Strong's Exhaustive Concordance depart. From dia and the middle voice of chorizo; to remove (oneself) wholly, i.e. Retire -- depart. see GREEK dia see GREEK chorizo NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom dia and chórizó Definition to separate entirely NASB Translation leaving (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 1316: διαχωρίζωδιαχωρίζω: to separate thoroughly or wholly (cf. διά, C. 2) (Aristophanes, Xenophon, Plato, others; the Sept.). Passive present διαχωρίζομαι ((in a reflexive sense) cf. ἀποχωρίζω) to separate oneself, depart, (Genesis 13:9, 11, 14; Diodorus 4, 53): ἀπό τίνος, Luke 9:33. Topical Lexicon Biblical Occurrence and ContextThe verb appears a single time in the New Testament, in Luke 9:33, within Luke’s account of the Transfiguration. Luke records that “as Moses and Elijah were departing from Him, Peter said to Jesus, ‘Master, it is good for us to be here…’” (Luke 9:33). The scene follows Jesus’ prayer on the mountain, the appearance of Moses and Elijah in glory, and their conversation with Him “about His departure, which He was about to accomplish at Jerusalem” (Luke 9:31). Narrative Significance in Luke 9 1. Transition of Revelation Moses (Law) and Elijah (Prophets) represent the totality of Old Testament revelation. Their departure places sole attention on Jesus, reinforcing the heavenly voice: “This is My Son, whom I have chosen; listen to Him” (Luke 9:35). The verb underscores that the former witnesses willingly step back so the greater revelation might stand alone. 2. Completion of Conversation Luke alone notes what Moses and Elijah discussed—Jesus’ “departure” (Greek exodos). Their departing signals the conclusion of that discussion and affirms that Christ’s impending death and resurrection fulfill both the Law and the Prophets (compare Matthew 5:17). 3. Peter’s Misguided Timing The disciples’ desire to build shelters came “as they were departing,” highlighting Peter’s impulse to extend a moment God intends to conclude. The verb thus sets the stage for the divine correction that follows (Luke 9:34-35). Theological Implications 1. Supremacy of Christ The voluntary withdrawal of two revered figures magnifies Christ’s unique sonship. Hebrews 1:1-2 reminds believers that God “has spoken to us by His Son.” The departure acts out that truth. 2. Progressive Revelation Scripture unfolds in stages, each fulfilling the last. The departure illustrates a handoff from shadow to substance (Colossians 2:17), from promise to fulfillment. 3. Worship Focus The moment teaches that genuine worship centers on Jesus alone. Even the most honored servants step aside so He may be pre-eminent (Colossians 1:18). Historical and Redemptive Movement The setting on “the mountain” evokes Sinai (Exodus 24) and Carmel (1 Kings 18). In both precedents, divine revelation pointed forward. When Moses and Elijah leave, the prophetic arc that began centuries earlier converges on the Messiah who will soon accomplish redemption at Jerusalem. Their departure is therefore not loss but consummation. Practical Ministry Applications 1. Discern Divine Transitions Like Peter, believers can cling to seasons God intends to close. The single use of this verb warns against resisting His timing. 2. Yielding Prominence Servants of Christ imitate Moses and Elijah by stepping back when the glory belongs elsewhere—whether in mentoring, leadership succession, or public recognition (John 3:30). 3. Listening Above Speaking Peter spoke “not realizing what he was saying” (Luke 9:33). The departure signals a moment to be silent and “listen to Him.” Ministry that listens first will speak with wisdom later (James 1:19). Related Old and New Testament Parallels • Exodus 33:12-23 – Moses’ encounter with divine glory anticipates a greater revelation. Summary By noting the precise instant Moses and Elijah depart, Luke crafts a decisive literary and theological pivot. The verb captures the moment when all prior revelation yields to the incarnate Son, urging every reader—and every servant—to do the same. Forms and Transliterations διακεχωρισμένοι διακεχωρισμένος διακεχωρισμένων διαχωρίζει διαχωρίζειν διαχωριζεσθαι διαχωρίζεσθαι διαχωρίζον διαχωρισθέντες διαχωρισθήναι διαχωρίσθητι διαχώρισον διάψαλμα διαψεύση δίγλωσσος διεχώρισεν διεχωρίσθησαν diachorizesthai diachorízesthai diachōrizesthai diachōrízesthaiLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts |
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