### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **erōtáō**, represented by `{{G2065}}`, serves as a word for interrogation or, by implication, a request. It is defined as to "ask, beseech, desire, intreat, pray." Apparently from ἐρέω `{{G2046}}`, it appears **59 times** across **57 unique verses** in the Bible and is compared with πυνθάνομαι `{{G4441}}`.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G2065}}` is used in several key contexts. It is used for direct questioning, as when Jesus **asked** his disciples, "Whom do men say that I the Son of man am?" [[Matthew 16:13]], or when the high priest **asked** Jesus of his disciples and doctrine [[John 18:19]]. It also frequently signifies a heartfelt request or supplication. A Syrophenician woman **besought** Jesus to cast a devil out of her daughter [[Mark 7:26]], and Joseph of Arimathaea **besought** Pilate that he might take away the body of Jesus [[John 19:38]]. Furthermore, the word is used for prayer, specifically in Jesus' intercessions to the Father, such as when He says, "I **pray** for them: I **pray** not for the world" [[John 17:9]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the specific meaning of `{{G2065}}`:
* `{{G2046}}` **eréō**: Likely the root of `erōtáō`, this word means "to utter, i.e. speak or say." It establishes the foundational concept of verbal communication and is used when one is told to say or tell something [[Matthew 21:24]].
* `{{G154}}` **aitéō**: This term for "ask" can also mean to "crave, desire, require." It is contrasted with `erōtáō` in a passage where Jesus says, "ye shall **ask** `{{G2065}}` me nothing...Whatsoever ye shall **ask** `{{G154}}` the Father in my name, he will give it you" [[John 16:23]].
* `{{G4441}}` **pynthánomai**: Explicitly compared to `erōtáō`, this word means "to question, i.e. ascertain by inquiry." It describes an inquiry for information, as when the Jews planned to **enquire** something of Paul more perfectly [[Acts 23:20]].
* `{{G3870}}` **parakaléō**: Meaning to "beseech" or "exhort," this word is sometimes used alongside `erōtáō` for emphasis, as when Paul writes, "we **beseech** `{{G2065}}` you, brethren, and **exhort** `{{G3870}}` you by the Lord Jesus" [[1 Thessalonians 4:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2065}}` is significant, revealing different dimensions of communication with God and others.
* **Intercessory Prayer:** The word is used to describe Jesus' intimate and specific prayers to the Father. He **prays** for his disciples' protection from evil [[John 17:15]] and for all future believers [[John 17:20]], distinguishing this focused intercession from prayer for the world at large [[John 17:9]].
* **Apostolic Entreaty:** The apostles use `{{G2065}}` to make earnest appeals to believers. Paul **beseeches** the Thessalonians to recognize their leaders [[1 Thessalonians 5:12]] and **intreats** his yokefellow to help those who labored in the gospel [[Philippians 4:3]].
* **Inquisitive Inquiry:** The term is central to pivotal moments of questioning and revelation. The Jews sent priests and Levites to **ask** John the Baptist his identity [[John 1:19]], and Jesus used it to **ask** His disciples about His own identity, prompting Peter's confession [[Matthew 16:13]].
* **Humble Supplication:** The word often conveys a sense of urgent need. Disciples **besought** Jesus to send away a woman who cried after them [[Matthew 15:23]], and a crowd of Gadarenes, seized with great fear, **besought** him to depart from them [[Luke 8:37]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2065}}` is a multifaceted term that extends beyond a simple request. It encompasses a spectrum of meaning from authoritative interrogation to the humble entreaties of those in need. Its use highlights the nature of relationships, whether it is Jesus praying to the Father, an apostle beseeching the church, or individuals asking questions to ascertain truth. This word is crucial for understanding the nuances of prayer, supplication, and inquiry in the biblical text.
TRV