σχίζω
To split or sever (literally or figuratively)
Reading a lexicon entry
What this page is: Each lexicon entry shows the original Hebrew or Greek word behind the English translation: its meaning, its range of use, and where it appears in Scripture.
Strong's number: The Strong's code (H- or G-) is the standard reference number for this word. It connects this entry to chapter and passage language tabs.
Canonical witness: The witness passages show where this word is used in context. Click any to open the study page for that passage.
These lexicon entries are being actively developed. If you notice missing content, incorrect definitions, or have suggestions, we'd love to hear from you. Share a note on our Connect page and include a screenshot if helpful.
What does σχίζω (schízō) mean in the Bible?
σχίζω (schízō) is a Greek word meaning "to split or sever (literally or figuratively)". σχίζω [in LXX chiefly for בָּקַע ;] to cleave, rend: Mat. Signals dramatic divine intervention and anticipates temple veil imagery. This term runs through the canonical themes of Presence.
Meaning
To split or tear apart, with metaphorical sense of dividing a community into opposing factions
to cleave, rend: Mat.27:51, Mrk.1:10 15:38, Luk.5:36 23:45, Jhn.19:24 21:11; metaphorically, in pass., to be divided into factions, Act.14:4 23:7.
Why This Word Matters
Signals dramatic divine intervention and anticipates temple veil imagery.
Grammatical Forms
How mood, tense, and voice shift the force of this verb in context.
Indicative states a fact or reality 8×
Participle verbal adjective — the action as a modifying quality 2×
Subjunctive possibility, probability, or purpose 1×
Discourse Aspect
How this verb appears across 11 occurrences in the NT discourse index (MACULA Greek SBLGNT).
Aspect reflects grammatical form — not authorial emphasis. Participles and infinitives are verbal adjectives and nouns respectively.
Clause data: MACULA Greek (Clear Bible, CC BY 4.0) · SBLGNT (Logos/SBL, CC BY 4.0)
Canonical Themes
Biblical Occurrences
Each occurrence shows the passage reference, the original language term as it appears in that context, its transliteration, and the contextual sense.
Additional Occurrences
New Testament Witnesses
Appears In
Compound and idiomatic lexemes in which this word is a constituent. Follow a link to study the phrase and its other participating words.
Word Pictures (Robertson)
A.T. Robertson's Word Pictures in the New Testament (1930–31) discusses this term in the following chapters. Open any chapter and go to the Word Pictures tab to read his verse-by-verse commentary.
A.T. Robertson, Word Pictures in the New Testament (1930–31) — public domain