### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **eperōtáō**, represented by `{{G1905}}`, is a term for interaction and inquiry, defined as "to ask for, i.e. inquire, seek." It appears **62 times** across **58 unique verses** in the Bible. While often translated simply as "ask," it can also carry the sense of a formal "demand," a "desire" for something to be shown, or a pointed "question."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G1905}}` is used in a variety of crucial contexts that reveal the questioner's intent. It is used for sincere seeking, as when a ruler asked Jesus, "Good Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?" [[Luke 18:18]]. Conversely, it is often used for hostile or testing questions, such as when the Pharisees and Sadducees came "tempting desired him that he would shew them a sign from heaven" [[Matthew 16:1]]. The word also denotes questions of authority, as when Pilate asked Jesus, "Art thou the King of the Jews?" [[Luke 23:3]], or when the high priest asked, "Art thou the Christ, the Son of the Blessed?" [[Mark 14:61]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the nuances of questioning and communication:
* `{{G4802}}` **syzētéō** (to investigate jointly, i.e. discuss, controvert, cavil): This term often precedes an act of asking. After hearing the scribes "reasoning together," one of them came and "asked" (eperōtáō) Jesus a question about the greatest commandment [[Mark 12:28]].
* `{{G611}}` **apokrínomai** (to respond; to begin to speak): As the natural counterpart to asking, this word for "answer" frequently follows an inquiry made with `{{G1905}}`. When Herod "questioned" Jesus with many words, Jesus "answered him nothing" [[Luke 23:9]].
* `{{G2212}}` **zētéō** (to seek): This word highlights the overlap between asking and seeking. In a poignant moment, Jesus "asked" (eperōtáō) the armed crowd, "Whom seek ye?" [[John 18:7]]. It is also used to distinguish God's grace, where He is found by those who did not "seek" Him and made manifest to those who "asked not after" Him [[Romans 10:20]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1905}}` is significant, as the act of questioning is a primary vehicle for revealing truth and character.
* **Revealing the Heart:** The questions posed to Jesus serve as a litmus test for the heart. The disciples' genuine questions lead to deeper teaching [[Mark 7:17]], while the Pharisees' questions are designed to "accuse him" [[Matthew 12:10]].
* **A Tool of Divine Inquiry:** Christ himself uses `{{G1905}}` to prompt revelation and confession. His pivotal question to the disciples, "Whom do men say that I am?" [[Mark 8:27]], is a turning point in their understanding of His identity.
* **The Catalyst for Instruction:** Many of Christ's teachings are prompted by a question. The people's inquiry, "What shall we do then?" [[Luke 3:10]], leads to John the Baptist's specific instructions for repentance and right living. In the church, women are instructed to "ask their husbands at home" if they wish to learn, framing the act of asking as the proper avenue for understanding [[1 Corinthians 14:35]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1905}}` is far more than a simple word for "ask." It is a dynamic term that captures the full spectrum of human inquiry, from sincere seeking and formal demands to hostile interrogation. Its use in scripture consistently drives the narrative, exposes the motives of the heart, and creates the context for some of the most profound theological declarations in the New Testament.
TRV