The Greek word akribóō, represented by G198, means to be exact or to ascertain. It is used in the context of a diligent inquiry to learn something with precision. It appears 3 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible, exclusively within the narrative of King Herod's attempt to find the newborn Jesus.
The use of G198 is central to Herod's plot against Jesus. In Matthew 2:7, after the wise men arrive in Jerusalem, a suspicious Herod privily G2977 calls them and enquired of them diligently what time the star appeared. The Greek word G198 is used for both "enquired" and "diligently," emphasizing the precise nature of his investigation. This inquiry provides Herod with the information he needs for his horrific act, as he later slew G337 all the children in Bethlehem from two years old and under, "according to the time which he had diligently enquired" Matthew 2:16.
Several related words help frame the context of this diligent inquiry:
- G2264 Hērṓdēs (Herod, the name of four Jewish kings): The sole individual in scripture who performs the action of G198, highlighting his central role as the antagonist in this event Matthew 2:7.
- G3097 mágos (a Magian, i.e. Oriental scientist; by implication, a magician:--sorcerer, wise man): These are the "wise men" from whom Herod diligently inquires, making them the source of his information Matthew 2:16.
- G1702 empaízō (to jeer at, i.e. deride:--mock): Herod's diligent inquiry turns to rage when he realizes he has been mocked by the wise men, leading directly to his order to kill the children Matthew 2:16.
- G792 astḗr (a star): The subject of Herod's diligent inquiry was the exact time the star appeared to the wise men Matthew 2:7.
- G337 anairéō (to take away (violently), i.e. abolish, murder): This is the ultimate, violent outcome of the information Herod diligently enquired about, as he slew all the young male children in the region Matthew 2:16.
The narrative weight of G198 is significant despite its rare use, as it demonstrates the nature of evil working against God's plan.
- Precision for Malice: The word highlights how Herod's inquiry was not a search for truth but a calculated step to ascertain the precise information needed to destroy a perceived rival.
- A Catalyst for Violence: The act of diligently inquiring is the direct catalyst for the slaughter in Bethlehem. The information gathered by Herod G2264 determines the scope of his murderous decree Matthew 2:16.
- Deceptive Inquiry: Herod's investigation is done privily G2977, or secretly, showing the deceptive nature of his plan. He sought exact details under a pretense of wishing to worship the new king Matthew 2:7.
In summary, G198 is a term of precision and careful investigation. Within the biblical narrative, however, its meaning is tied exclusively to King Herod's methodical and deceitful plot to locate and kill the infant Jesus. It powerfully illustrates how the act of ascertaining facts can be used not for wisdom, but to meticulously plan and execute an evil agenda in opposition to the purposes of God.
TRV