middle voice of δέω; to beg (as binding oneself), i.e. petition:--beseech, pray (to), make request. Compare πυνθάνομαι.
Transliteration:déomai
Pronunciation:deh'-om-ahee
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb δέομαι (déomai `{{G1189}}`) is the middle voice of δέω (deō), which means "to bind" or "to tie." The use of the middle voice is significant, implying an action performed by the subject for their own benefit or with a strong personal involvement. Thus, the core meaning of δέομαι is "to beg (as binding oneself)," which conveys a profound sense of personal need or constraint leading to an earnest request. It is not merely a casual asking, but a deep-seated desire or necessity that compels the petitioner to make a humble and urgent appeal. Its semantic range includes "beseech," "pray (to)," and "make request," all carrying the nuance of fervent entreaty born out of a perceived lack or dire circumstance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
δέομαι appears frequently in the New Testament, often in contexts of prayer or urgent appeal.
* **Prayer to God or Christ:** This is a prominent usage, highlighting the earnestness of supplication. For instance, the disciples δέομαι Jesus to teach them to pray in [[Luke 11:1]], indicating a profound desire for spiritual instruction. Paul uses the word to describe his fervent prayers for the Roman believers, expressing his earnest desire to visit them in [[Romans 1:10]]. Most notably, Paul recounts how he δέομαι the Lord three times to remove his "thorn in the flesh" in [[2 Corinthians 12:8]], showcasing a desperate and repeated plea born of suffering.
* **Requests to Humans:** The term is also employed when individuals make earnest appeals to other people, often out of desperation or a strong need. The father of the demon-possessed boy δέομαι Jesus to look upon his only son in [[Luke 9:38]], a plea born of deep paternal anguish. Similarly, Paul δέομαι King Agrippa to listen patiently to his defense in [[Acts 26:3]], indicating a serious and respectful appeal for a fair hearing.
* **Contextual Nuances:** Across its occurrences, δέομαι consistently conveys a sense of urgency, humility, and a recognition of dependence on the part of the one making the request. Whether directed towards the divine or human, it signifies a plea that is far more intense than a simple "ask."
### Related Words & Concepts
* **Synonyms and Near Synonyms:**
* προσεύχομαι (proseuchomai `{{G4336}}`): The most common Greek word for prayer, often referring to general acts of worship and communion with God. While δέομαι can be a form of προσεύχομαι, it typically emphasizes the specific petition or urgent need more strongly.
* αἰτέω (aiteō `{{G154}}`): To ask or demand. This term can be more general and does not always carry the same intensity or implication of deep need as δέομαι.
* ἐρωτάω (erōtaō `{{G2065}}`): To ask a question or make a request, sometimes implying a degree of equality or familiarity between the asker and the one being asked.
* παρακαλέω (parakaleō `{{G3870}}`): To call alongside, comfort, exhort, or appeal. While it can mean "to beseech," its semantic range is broader, encompassing encouragement and exhortation.
* **Conceptual Contrast:** δέομαι stands in contrast to concepts of self-sufficiency, pride, or independence. The act of δέομαι inherently acknowledges a lack and a reliance on another for aid or intervention.
* **Root Connection:** The connection to δέω (to bind) suggests that the petitioner is "bound" by their need, highlighting the compelling nature of their request.
### Theological Significance
The theological implications of δέομαι are profound:
* **Human Dependence on God:** δέομαι powerfully underscores the foundational theological truth of human dependence on God. It is a recognition of our inherent limitations and our need for divine grace, provision, and intervention. To δέομαι God is to humbly acknowledge His sovereignty and our reliance upon Him.
* **Nature of Prayer:** This word illuminates prayer as an earnest, often urgent, petition arising from a genuine spiritual or physical need. It moves beyond mere ritual or routine, portraying prayer as a heartfelt cry to a responsive God. This aligns with biblical exhortations to pray fervently and persistently ([[James 5:16]]).
* **Humility and Faith:** The act of "begging" or "beseeching" inherently involves humility. It is a posture of submission and vulnerability before the one from whom the request is made, demonstrating faith that the one being petitioned has the power and willingness to respond.
* **Intercession:** When believers δέομαι on behalf of others, it becomes a powerful act of intercession, embodying love, compassion, and solidarity within the body of Christ. Paul's frequent use of δέομαι when praying for the churches ([[Philippians 1:9]]) exemplifies this vital aspect of Christian community.
* **Divine Responsiveness:** The very existence and frequent use of δέομαι in the New Testament implicitly testifies to God's character as a listening and compassionate Father who is attentive to the earnest prayers of His children.
### Summary
The Greek verb δέομαι (déomai `{{G1189}}`) signifies an earnest petition or urgent request, rooted in a deep personal need or lack. Derived from δέω ("to bind"), its middle voice conveys the sense of being personally constrained by necessity, prompting a heartfelt plea. This word moves beyond a casual "ask," implying a humble and often desperate entreaty to "beg," "beseech," or "implore." In the New Testament, δέομαι is used extensively for fervent prayers to God or Christ, as seen in the disciples' request to Jesus in [[Luke 11:1]] or Paul's pleas concerning his thorn in [[2 Corinthians 12:8]]. It also describes earnest appeals to human authorities, such as the father's plea for his son in [[Luke 9:38]]. Theologically, δέομαι profoundly emphasizes human dependence on God, portraying prayer as an urgent, humble, and faith-filled cry from the heart. It underscores the importance of intercession and implicitly affirms God's gracious responsiveness to the sincere supplications of His people.
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