### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **aitéō**, represented by `{{G154}}`, is a versatile term for **to ask**. It appears 71 times across 68 unique verses in the Bible, signifying its importance in both human interaction and divine communication. Its meaning ranges from a simple request or demand to a deep, faith-filled petition, encompassing actions like to beg, call for, crave, desire, and require.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G154}}` is used to describe various forms of asking. It is frequently seen in the context of prayer, where believers are encouraged to **ask** God for their needs, with the promise that they will receive ([[Matthew 7:7]], [[Luke 11:9]]). This includes asking for intangible things like wisdom [[James 1:5]] and tangible provisions [[Matthew 7:9]]. The term also describes human-to-human requests, such as when the people **desired** a murderer to be released to them [[Acts 3:14]], when Joseph of Arimathaea **craved** the body of Jesus [[Mark 15:43]], or when a man **asked for** a writing table [[Luke 1:63]]. The motive behind the asking is critical, as one can **ask** amiss with wrong intentions [[James 4:3]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the nuances of making requests and receiving from God:
* `{{G2065}}` **erōtáō** (to interrogate; by implication, to request): This term is often used for asking a question or making a specific request, sometimes in a more formal or peer-level context. In [[1 John 5:16]], it is used distinctly from `{{G154}}` to specify a type of prayer.
* `{{G2212}}` **zētéō** (to seek): Often paired with `{{G154}}`, this word implies a more active, diligent search. The command to "**ask**... **seek**... knock" shows a progression in pursuing God [[Matthew 7:7]].
* `{{G1325}}` **dídōmi** (to give): This word is the direct counterpart to asking. It represents God's response to the petitions of His people, as seen in the promise, "**Ask**, and it shall be **given** you" [[Luke 11:9]].
* `{{G2925}}` **kroúō** (to rap:--knock): Used alongside `{{G154}}` and `{{G2212}}`, this completes the triplet of actions that demonstrate persistent faith in approaching God ([[Matthew 7:7]], [[Luke 11:10]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G154}}` is significant, as it underpins the doctrine of prayer and the believer's relationship with God.
* **The Divine Invitation:** The act of asking is established as a foundational principle of faith. God explicitly invites believers to present their requests to Him, with the failure to **ask** cited as a reason for not having [[James 4:2]]. This is most clearly stated in the command, "**Ask**, and it shall be given you" [[Matthew 7:7]].
* **Conditions for Receiving:** Effective asking is not without conditions. It requires faith [[James 1:6]], belief [[Matthew 21:22]], and alignment with God's will [[1 John 5:14]]. Requests made with selfish motives will not be granted [[James 4:3]].
* **The Authority of Christ's Name:** A key theological development is the instruction to **ask** the Father in Jesus' name. This action glorifies the Father through the Son and is tied to the promise of receiving ([[John 14:13]], [[John 15:16]]).
* **The Character of the Giver:** The act of asking reveals the nature of God as a benevolent Father who gives good things to those who **ask** Him [[Matthew 7:11]] and provides wisdom **liberally** and without reproach [[James 1:5]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G154}}` moves beyond a simple definition of asking. It is a cornerstone of the biblical concept of prayer, defining the believer's direct access to God. From a crowd **requiring** a prisoner's release to a disciple **asking** in Jesus' name, the word illustrates a fundamental dynamic of relationship and dependence, both human and divine. It teaches that while God invites all to **ask**, the posture of the heart and the alignment with His will are what truly matter.
TRV