### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb `{{G1833}}` (exetázō) is a compound word formed from the preposition ἐκ (ek), meaning "out of" or "from," and the verb ἐτάζω (etázō), meaning "to examine" or "to test." The prefix ἐκ serves as an intensifier, indicating a thoroughness or completeness in the action of examining. Thus, the core meaning of exetázō is "to examine thoroughly," "to scrutinize," "to investigate fully," or "to test by questioning."
Its semantic range extends to "to ascertain," "to interrogate," "to ask carefully," "to inquire diligently," or "to search out." It implies a deliberate and often probing inquiry aimed at uncovering facts, truth, or the suitability of something or someone. Unlike a casual question, exetázō denotes a systematic and often formal process of seeking information, leaving no stone unturned in the pursuit of understanding.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb `{{G1833}}` appears sparingly in the New Testament, but its few occurrences are highly significant, illuminating distinct uses and implications:
* **[[Matthew 2:7]]**: "Then Herod secretly called the wise men and determined from them the exact time the star appeared." Here, Herod "enquired thoroughly" (ἐξητάσεν) of the Magi. This was not a casual conversation but a meticulous interrogation, driven by his malicious intent to locate and destroy the newborn King. The thoroughness implied by exetázō underscores Herod's sinister purpose and his careful planning to achieve it. He sought precise information to execute his wicked scheme.
* **[[Matthew 10:11]]**: "Whatever city or village you enter, find out who in it is worthy, and stay there until you leave." In this context, Jesus instructs His disciples to "enquire thoroughly" (ἐξετάσατε) for a "worthy" (ἄξιος, `{{G514}}`) person or household. This command highlights the need for careful discernment and spiritual prudence in ministry. The disciples were not to simply ask for lodging but to conduct a careful assessment, perhaps through observation and initial conversation, to identify those who were genuinely receptive to the gospel message and whose character would be suitable for hosting the messengers of the Kingdom. This implies a search for spiritual readiness and moral uprightness, ensuring that the resources and fellowship of the mission were invested wisely.
These two occurrences present a stark contrast: one demonstrates the use of thorough inquiry for destructive, ungodly purposes, while the other illustrates its necessity for righteous, discerning ministry.
### Related Words & Concepts
`{{G1833}}` shares semantic overlap with several other Greek terms related to inquiry, testing, and discernment:
* `{{G350}}` (anakrinō): To examine, investigate, or judge, often in a legal or official context. This word is frequently used for judicial examinations (e.g., Paul being "examined" by the Sanhedrin or Roman officials in Acts) and also for spiritual discernment, as in [[1 Corinthians 2:15]] where the spiritual person "judges all things." anakrinō often implies a formal interrogation or a process of evaluation, making it a very close synonym to exetázō.
* `{{G3985}}` (peirazō): To test, try, or tempt. This word can carry the connotation of testing with a view to finding fault or proving weakness, as when Satan "tempts" Christ.
* `{{G1381}}` (dokimazō): To test, prove, or approve. This term typically implies a test to determine genuineness, fitness, or worth, often with the intent of approval if the test is passed (e.g., "prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God," [[Romans 12:2]]).
* `{{G4441}}` (punthanomai): To inquire, to learn by inquiry. This is a more general term for asking or seeking information.
* `{{G2065}}` (erotao): To ask, question, or request. This is a common verb for asking, without necessarily implying the depth of scrutiny found in exetázō.
The concept underlying exetázō is that of deep investigation, going beyond superficial appearances to uncover underlying truth or character. It is a process of careful discernment, whether for good or ill.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G1833}}` lies primarily in its illumination of human agency in seeking information, and the moral implications of such inquiry.
1. **The Nature of Inquiry**: The word underscores that inquiry itself is morally neutral; its ethical valence is determined by the intent and purpose behind it. Herod's use of exetázō reveals a malevolent heart seeking to eliminate a perceived rival, demonstrating how thorough investigation can be a tool for sin and destruction. Conversely, Jesus' command to His disciples highlights the necessity of careful, discerning inquiry for righteous purposes, ensuring the stewardship of the gospel and resources for those who are truly receptive. This teaches that believers are called to be wise and discerning, not naive, in their interactions and ministries.
2. **Human Responsibility and Discernment**: The instruction in [[Matthew 10:11]] places a responsibility on the disciples to "find out" or "examine thoroughly" the worthiness of potential hosts. This emphasizes the importance of discernment in Christian life and ministry. Believers are not to blindly accept all invitations or associate indiscriminately, but to exercise spiritual wisdom in choosing companions and contexts for fellowship and ministry. This echoes broader biblical calls for wisdom (`{{H2451}}`, `{{G4678}}`) and discernment (`{{G1297}}`).
3. **Contrast with Divine Knowledge**: While exetázō is applied to human inquiry, it indirectly contrasts with God's perfect and inherent knowledge. Humans must "examine thoroughly" to ascertain truth, whereas God "knows the heart" (`{{H3820}}`) and "searches the mind" (`{{H2713}}`) without needing to inquire or investigate. This reminds us of the limitations of human knowledge and the necessity of diligent effort to understand, even as we rely on divine revelation.
### Summary
The Greek verb `{{G1833}}` (exetázō) denotes a thorough and careful examination, interrogation, or inquiry. It signifies a deeper level of investigation than casual questioning, aiming to ascertain facts, truth, or suitability. Though infrequent in the New Testament, its occurrences are potent. In [[Matthew 2:7]], it describes Herod's malicious and precise interrogation of the Magi, revealing how detailed inquiry can serve wicked ends. In [[Matthew 10:11]], Jesus instructs His disciples to "enquire thoroughly" for worthy hosts, emphasizing the need for prudent discernment in ministry. The word thus highlights the moral neutrality of the act of inquiry itself, its ethical value being determined by the intent behind it. It underscores the human responsibility to exercise careful discernment and thorough investigation in various aspects of life, particularly in matters of faith and ministry.
TRV