from ἐκ and ζητέω; to search out, i.e. (figuratively)investigate, crave, demand, (by Hebraism) worship:--en- (re-)quire, seek after (carefully, diligently).
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ekzētéō**, represented by `{{G1567}}`, is defined as to search out, investigate, demand, or by Hebraism, to worship. Formed from the words ἐκ and ζητέω, it implies a careful and diligent search. It appears **8 times** across **7 unique verses** in the Bible, carrying significant weight in its various contexts.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G1567}}` is used to convey a deep and purposeful search. It describes the state of humanity, where "there is none that **seeketh after** God" [[Romans 3:11]]. Conversely, it defines the essence of faith, as God is a "rewarder of them that **diligently seek** him" [[Hebrews 11:6]]. The term is also used for the prophets who **enquired** into salvation [[1 Peter 1:10]], and for the future hope that the Gentiles might **seek after** the Lord [[Acts 15:17]]. In a different sense, it expresses a demand for accountability, as the blood of the prophets will be **required** of a specific generation [[Luke 11:50-51]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{G1567}}`:
* `{{G1830}}` **exereunáō** (search diligently): This term is paired directly with `{{G1567}}` to describe the thoroughness of the prophets' investigation, as they "enquired and **searched diligently**" [[1 Peter 1:10]].
* `{{G4100}}` **pisteúō** (to believe): The act of seeking is directly linked to faith. A person who comes to God must **believe** that He exists and rewards those who diligently seek him [[Hebrews 11:6]].
* `{{G4334}}` **prosérchomai** (to approach): This word highlights the prerequisite for seeking God. One must first **come** to God in order to seek Him, as described in Hebrews [[Hebrews 11:6]].
* `{{G4920}}` **syníēmi** (to understand): This term is presented as a parallel action to seeking. In Romans, the text states there is none that **understandeth** and none that **seeketh after** God, linking comprehension with the desire to pursue Him [[Romans 3:11]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1567}}` is significant, highlighting key aspects of the relationship between God and humanity.
* **The Search for God:** The word defines a core spiritual dynamic. While scripture states that in their natural state, people do not **seek after** God [[Romans 3:11]], it is part of God's redemptive purpose that all people, including the Gentiles, might **seek after** Him [[Acts 15:17]].
* **A Prerequisite of Faith:** Diligently seeking God is presented as an act of faith. To **diligently seek** Him is an essential part of a pleasing relationship with God, predicated on the belief in His existence and His character as a rewarder [[Hebrews 11:6]].
* **Divine Accountability:** The term is also used to convey divine justice. It is not always man who seeks, but God who demands, as when the blood of the prophets is **required** of a generation, holding them accountable [[Luke 11:50]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1567}}` **ekzētéō** is a multifaceted word that signifies more than a casual look. It conveys a diligent and purposeful search, whether it is the prophets investigating salvation, the faithful seeking God, or the desperate but futile search of Esau for repentance [[Hebrews 12:17]]. The term powerfully captures both the human responsibility to seek God in faith and God's sovereign right to demand an account from humanity.
TRV