### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **aítēma**, represented by `{{G155}}`, defines **a thing asked** or, more concretely, a **petition** or **request**. It is derived from the verb αἰτέω, which means to ask. Though it appears only **3 times** in **3 unique verses**, its usage specifies the substance of what is being asked for or required.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G155}}` is used to describe both divine and secular requests. It is presented as the **petitions** believers can be confident they **have** when they know God hears their prayers [[1 John 5:15]]. In a similar context, believers are instructed to let their **requests** be made known to God through prayer and supplication, as a remedy for anxiety [[Philippians 4:6]]. In contrast, the term is also used for the demand made of Pilate, who "gave sentence" that the crowd should receive what they **required** [[Luke 23:24]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the concept of asking and petitioning:
* `{{G154}}` **aitéō** (to ask): As the root verb for `{{G155}}`, it means to ask, beg, crave, or require. It is used in the context of asking and receiving from God [[Matthew 7:7]] and the assurance that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us [[1 John 5:14]].
* `{{G1162}}` **déēsis** (a petition): This word for supplication appears alongside `{{G155}}` in [[Philippians 4:6]], suggesting a specific type of earnest asking that accompanies requests made to God. It is also used to describe the effectual fervent **prayer** of a righteous man [[James 5:16]].
* `{{G4335}}` **proseuchḗ** (prayer): This term for prayer as worship is paired with `{{G155}}` to show that requests to God should be made within a framework of worship [[Philippians 4:6]]. It is used broadly for communication with God, such as continuing instant in **prayer** [[Romans 12:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G155}}` centers on the nature of what is asked and the confidence in its reception.
* **Assurance of Reception:** The use of `{{G155}}` in [[1 John 5:15]] establishes a direct link between knowing God hears us and having the **petitions** we have asked of Him. This provides believers with confidence in prayer.
* **The Manner of Asking:** In [[Philippians 4:6]], making **requests** to God is part of a spiritual process that includes prayer `{{G4335}}`, supplication `{{G1162}}`, and thanksgiving `{{G2169}}`, positioning petition as an act of faith rather than anxious demand.
* **The Object of the Request:** The word's application in [[Luke 23:24]] highlights that an **aítēma** is simply the "thing asked for," whether it is a righteous petition to God or a human demand granted by a secular authority like Pilate.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G155}}` **aítēma** provides a specific term for a **petition** or **request**. While its appearances are few, they draw a sharp distinction between the faithful **requests** made to God with thanksgiving and confidence, and the secular demands made of human authorities. It emphasizes the substance of what is asked, and in a spiritual context, illustrates the assurance believers can have that their petitions are received by a God who hears them.
TRV