The variance meaning in the Bible is an important topic for Christians seeking to understand biblical teachings about relationships, unity, and spiritual maturity.
In older Bible translations, particularly the King James Version (KJV), the word variance describes conflict, disagreement, or hostility between people.
It is listed among the “works of the flesh” in Galatians 5, showing that God desires His people to pursue peace instead of division.
Understanding the variance meaning in the Bible helps believers build healthier relationships rooted in love and forgiveness.
Many people search for the variance meaning in the Bible because the word is uncommon in modern English.
Learning its biblical meaning provides a deeper understanding of Scripture and encourages Christians to avoid attitudes that create conflict.
This article explains the word’s origin, biblical context, spiritual symbolism, and practical lessons for everyday Christian living.
Quick Answer
The variance meaning in the Bible refers to conflict, strife, disagreement, or hostility between people. In Galatians 5:20, it is listed as one of the works of the flesh, contrasting with the fruit of the Spirit, which promotes peace, unity, and love.
What Does Variance Mean in the Bible?
In biblical language, variance means discord, conflict, quarrels, or ongoing disagreement. It describes broken relationships caused by selfishness, pride, jealousy, or anger.
The Apostle Paul includes variance in his list of sinful behaviors that reflect a life controlled by the flesh rather than by the Holy Spirit.
Rather than encouraging division, the Bible consistently teaches believers to pursue reconciliation, forgiveness, and unity.
SEO Table: Meaning of Variance
| Word | Biblical Meaning |
|---|---|
| Variance | Conflict or disagreement |
| Discord | Lack of harmony |
| Strife | Ongoing conflict |
| Biblical Opposite | Peace and unity |
Origin and History of the Word Variance
The English word variance comes from the Latin variare, meaning to differ or to change. It entered English through Old French and eventually became a legal and literary term describing disagreement.
In the King James Version, “variance” translates Greek words referring to hostility, rivalry, or contention between individuals.
Modern Bible translations often replace variance with words such as:
- Discord
- Conflict
- Strife
- Quarreling
- Hostility
SEO Table: Origin of Variance
| Language | Word | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Latin | Variare | To differ |
| Old French | Variance | Disagreement |
| Modern English | Variance | Conflict or discord |
| Biblical Context | Division among people |
Biblical Connection of Variance
The most well-known reference appears in Galatians 5:19–21, where Paul lists the works of the flesh.
Variance appears alongside sins such as:
- Hatred
- Jealousy
- Wrath
- Strife
- Seditions
- Envy
Paul contrasts these behaviors with the fruit of the Spirit found later in Galatians 5:22–23.
This comparison teaches that believers should seek peace rather than conflict.
Spiritual Meaning of Variance in the Bible
The variance meaning in the Bible carries an important spiritual message.
Spiritually, variance represents:
- Broken fellowship
- Pride
- Unforgiveness
- Division within God’s people
- Resistance to the Holy Spirit
When Christians allow selfish attitudes to control their hearts, relationships often suffer.
God calls believers to replace conflict with humility, forgiveness, and love.
Symbolic Interpretation
Variance symbolizes:
- Division instead of unity
- Pride instead of humility
- Anger instead of peace
- Selfishness instead of love
- Fleshly living instead of spiritual maturity
The Bible encourages believers to overcome these attitudes through the transforming work of the Holy Spirit.
Variance as a Work of the Flesh
Paul teaches that variance is one of the works of the flesh.
These behaviors arise when people depend on sinful human nature instead of God’s Spirit.
Characteristics of variance include:
- Frequent arguments
- Jealous competition
- Bitterness
- Unforgiving attitudes
- Constant conflict
Such behavior damages families, churches, friendships, and communities.
The Opposite of Variance: The Fruit of the Spirit
The Bible provides the solution to variance through the fruit of the Spirit.
The Holy Spirit produces:
- Love
- Joy
- Peace
- Patience
- Kindness
- Goodness
- Faithfulness
- Gentleness
- Self-control
These qualities restore relationships and promote harmony among believers.
Variance Compared with Similar Biblical Terms
SEO Comparison Table
| Term | Meaning | Biblical View |
|---|---|---|
| Variance | Conflict or disagreement | Negative |
| Strife | Ongoing quarrels | Negative |
| Discord | Broken harmony | Negative |
| Peace | Harmony through God | Positive |
Although these words are related, each highlights a different aspect of relational conflict.
Cultural and Modern Usage
Today, the word variance is commonly used in statistics, law, and science to describe differences or deviations.
In everyday conversation, however, people usually say:
- Conflict
- Disagreement
- Tension
- Dispute
When reading older Bible translations, understanding the biblical meaning helps modern readers interpret Scripture accurately.
Why People Search for Variance Meaning in the Bible
People search this topic for several reasons.
Common questions include:
- What does variance mean in Galatians?
- Is variance a sin?
- Why is variance listed among the works of the flesh?
- How can Christians overcome variance?
- What does God teach about conflict?
These questions reflect a desire to understand biblical relationships more deeply.
Common Misconceptions About Variance
Misconception 1: Variance Means Different Opinions
Not necessarily. The Bible condemns sinful conflict, not respectful differences of opinion.
Misconception 2: Every Disagreement Is Sinful
Healthy discussions and respectful disagreements are normal. Sin occurs when conflict is driven by pride, hatred, or selfish ambition.
Misconception 3: Variance Cannot Be Resolved
The Gospel teaches forgiveness, reconciliation, and restored relationships through Christ.
How Christians Can Avoid Variance
Believers can overcome variance by practicing biblical principles.
- Pray for humility.
- Forgive quickly.
- Listen before speaking.
- Seek reconciliation.
- Control anger.
- Put others before yourself.
- Follow the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
These habits strengthen both personal faith and healthy relationships.
Lessons Christians Can Learn
The variance meaning in the Bible teaches several lasting truths.
- God values unity.
- Pride destroys relationships.
- Love overcomes conflict.
- Forgiveness brings healing.
- The Holy Spirit produces peace.
These lessons apply in families, churches, workplaces, and communities.
Final Thought
The variance meaning in the Bible reminds believers that conflict, hostility, and division are not part of God’s design for His people. Listed among the works of the flesh, variance warns against allowing pride, jealousy, and anger to damage relationships. Instead, Scripture calls Christians to pursue love, peace, forgiveness, and unity through the power of the Holy Spirit.
While disagreements may arise in everyday life, believers are encouraged to handle them with humility and grace. By following Christ’s example of reconciliation, Christians can reflect God’s love and build stronger relationships that honor Him and strengthen the church.
FAQs
1. What does variance mean in the Bible?
Variance means conflict, disagreement, hostility, or discord between people.
2. Where is variance mentioned in the Bible?
It is listed in Galatians 5:20 as one of the works of the flesh.
3. Is variance considered a sin?
The Bible identifies sinful conflict and division as works of the flesh that believers should avoid.
4. What is the opposite of variance?
Peace, unity, forgiveness, and the fruit of the Holy Spirit are the biblical opposites of variance.
5. Does variance mean having different opinions?
No. It refers to harmful conflict rather than respectful disagreement.
6. How can Christians overcome variance?
Through prayer, forgiveness, humility, love, and obedience to the Holy Spirit.
7. Why is understanding variance important?
It helps believers build healthy relationships and live according to biblical principles of peace and unity.
