### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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