### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ektenésteron**, represented by `{{G1617}}`, means to do something **more intently** or **more earnestly**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, highlighting a moment of profound and intensified action.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its sole biblical appearance, `{{G1617}}` describes the manner of Christ's prayer in the midst of extreme suffering. The text states that "being in an **agony** he prayed **more earnestly**" [[Luke 22:44]]. This singular usage emphasizes the unparalleled intensity of this moment, linking the word directly to Christ's anguish before his crucifixion.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from the same passage provide a fuller picture of this moment:
* `{{G74}}` **agōnía** (a struggle, anguish): This word defines the state of Christ when he prayed more earnestly, underscoring the deep internal conflict and suffering he was experiencing [[Luke 22:44]].
* `{{G4336}}` **proseúchomai** (to pray to God, i.e. supplicate, worship): This is the action that `{{G1617}}` modifies. It shows that even in agony, the response was to supplicate God, a practice believers are also called to [[Ephesians 6:18]].
* `{{G129}}` **haîma** (blood): This word is used to describe the appearance of his sweat. The concept of **blood** is theologically central to redemption and the forgiveness of sins through Christ [[Ephesians 1:7]].
* `{{G1093}}` **gē** (soil, a region, ground): This word marks the final destination of Christ's sweat which fell like drops of blood, connecting His agony to the very **earth** [[Luke 22:44]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1617}}` is concentrated in its single, powerful use.
* **Intensified Supplication:** The use of `{{G1617}}` signifies a level of prayer that goes beyond the ordinary. It demonstrates that in a moment of profound **agony** `{{G74}}`, Christ’s communication with the Father did not cease but became even more focused and fervent [[Luke 22:44]].
* **Humanity and Obedience:** This moment captures the depth of Christ's human suffering. His response to pray **more earnestly** in the face of this anguish, which produced sweat like **great drops** `{{G2361}}` of **blood** `{{G129}}`, shows his commitment to fulfilling God's will even at immense personal cost.
* **A Singular Moment:** Since `{{G1617}}` appears only once, it marks this event as unique. The term amplifies the gravity of the struggle as Jesus prepared for the atonement, where his **blood** would later be shed for the forgiveness of sins [[Revelation 1:5]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1617}}` is a highly specific term used to convey an extraordinary degree of intensity. Though appearing only once, its placement in the narrative of Christ's agony in the garden is pivotal. It transforms the description of prayer from a simple action into a profound display of focused devotion amidst an overwhelming struggle, forever marking the depth of Christ's resolve on the path to the cross.
TRV