middle voice prolonged from a primary (which occurs only as an alternate in certain tenses); to question, i.e. ascertain by inquiry (as a matter of information merely; and thus differing from ἐρωτάω, which properly means a request as a favor; and from αἰτέω, which is strictly a demand for something due; as well as from ζητέω, which implies a search for something hidden; and from δέομαι, which involves the idea of urgent need); by implication, to learn (by casual intelligence):--ask, demand, enquire, understand.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **pynthánomai**, represented by `{{G4441}}`, signifies the act of questioning to ascertain information. It appears **12 times** across **12 unique verses** in the Bible. Its base definition highlights a specific kind of inquiry for facts or casual intelligence, distinguishing it from a request made as a favor, as with **erōtáō** `{{G2065}}`, or a search for something hidden.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G4441}}` is used in various contexts to move the story forward by seeking information. When the wise men arrived, Herod **demanded** of the chief priests and scribes where the Christ should be born [[Matthew 2:4]]. In a moment of confusion, a blind man hearing a crowd pass by **asked** what it meant [[Luke 18:36]]. Similarly, a Roman **chief captain** `{{G5506}}` used this form of questioning when he **demanded** to know who Paul was and what he had done [[Acts 21:33]]. This type of inquiry is about gathering objective details.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the context surrounding the act of asking:
* `{{G2065}}` **erōtáō** (to interrogate; by implication, to request): This word is often a request rather than a simple inquiry. It is used when the Jews conspired to **desire** the chief captain to bring Paul before the council under the pretense of a more thorough inquiry [[Acts 23:20]].
* `{{G1905}}` **eperōtáō** (to ask for, i.e. inquire, seek): A similar term for inquiry, it is used when the governor **asked** what province Paul was from during his hearing [[Acts 23:34]].
* `{{G2753}}` **keleúō** (to incite by word, i.e. order): This word for giving a command can precede an inquiry. For instance, the chief captain first **commanded** Paul to be bound with chains and then **demanded** `{{G4441}}` his identity [[Acts 21:33]].
* `{{G5506}}` **chilíarchos** (the commander of a thousand soldiers): This "**chief captain**" is a key figure who repeatedly uses `{{G4441}}` to investigate the circumstances surrounding Paul's arrest ([[Acts 21:33]], [[Acts 23:19]]).
### Theological Significance
The functional significance of `{{G4441}}` is rooted in its role as a narrative device for discovery and clarification.
* **Seeking Factual Understanding:** The word is used by individuals trying to make sense of their immediate circumstances. The elder brother **asked** what the celebration meant upon the prodigal son's return [[Luke 15:26]], and an official **enquired** about the exact hour his son began to recover to confirm the miracle [[John 4:52]].
* **Initiating Official Action:** In authoritative settings, this inquiry is the first step in a formal process. The council **asked** Peter and John by what power they had performed their miracle [[Acts 4:7]], and a governor **understood** Paul's provincial origin through such questioning, a fact essential for his jurisdiction [[Acts 23:34]].
* **Revealing Critical Information:** An inquiry using `{{G4441}}` can unveil pivotal truths. At the Last Supper, Simon Peter **beckoned** `{{G3506}}` to another disciple to **ask** Jesus and identify his betrayer [[John 13:24]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4441}}` is a precise term for inquiry aimed at gathering information. It is not a plea or a demand for something owed, but a direct question to ascertain facts. From a Roman **chief captain** `{{G5506}}` conducting an investigation [[Acts 21:33]] to a father verifying a miracle [[John 4:52]], this word underpins key moments of discovery and drives the narrative forward by revealing essential details. It highlights a specific and crucial form of human interaction documented throughout Scripture.
TRV