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.
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.
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.
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.
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