The Greek word epaitéō, represented by G1871, means to ask for or to beg. It is derived from ἐπί and αἰτέω. This specific term is quite rare, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible. Its meaning is focused on the act of requesting aid, often from a position of need or desperation.
The sole use of G1871 is found in a parable told by Jesus. In the story of the unjust steward, the steward faces unemployment and contemplates his future. He states, "I cannot dig; to beg I am ashamed" Luke 16:3. Here, the word highlights a choice born of desperation, presenting begging as a humbling and undesirable alternative to manual labor for someone who has lost their position and livelihood.
The context of G1871 is framed by other words that express action and ability:
- G2480 ischýō (to have (or exercise) force): This word is used negatively in the same verse, where the steward declares, "I cannot dig" Luke 16:3. This lack of strength or ability for physical labor is what forces him to consider begging as an option. The same word is used elsewhere to describe those who are physically whole Mark 2:17.
- G4160 poiéō (to make or do): The steward's dilemma begins with the question, "What shall I do?" Luke 16:3. This fundamental word for action sets up the choice between various activities, with begging being one of the possibilities. The word is used broadly for performing actions, from doing God's will Matthew 7:21 to making a way of escape from temptation 1 Corinthians 10:13.
While appearing only once, the use of G1871 provides insight into human nature when faced with crisis.
- A Last Resort: To beg is presented as an action taken only when other, more respectable options are exhausted. The steward first considers his inability to perform manual labor ("I cannot dig") before contemplating begging Luke 16:3.
- Source of Shame: The act of begging is explicitly linked with shame. The steward's statement, "to beg I am ashamed," reveals the social stigma and personal disgrace associated with such dependency in that context Luke 16:3.
- Motivation for Action: The undesirability of both digging and begging is what ultimately motivates the steward to devise a clever, albeit unjust, plan for his survival. The shame of begging serves as a powerful catalyst for his subsequent actions.
In summary, G1871 epaitéō offers a specific and powerful image of desperation. Though it appears only once, its placement within the parable of the unjust steward is significant. It encapsulates the profound sense of shame and social descent associated with having to ask for sustenance. The word serves as a crucial emotional pivot in the narrative, driving the steward to find an alternative solution and illustrating the powerful human desire to avoid dependency.
TRV