Brief Overview of ἀπαιτέω (Strong’s G523)

The Greek word ἀπαιτέω (apaíteō) means “to demand” or “to require.” It is used to indicate the act of requesting or insisting on something, often with a sense of authority or obligation. This term can refer to demanding something from someone or seeking something that is due or owed.

Detailed Overview

1. Strong’s Concordance: Strong’s defines ἀπαιτέω as “to demand” or “to require.” It is used in the New Testament to describe actions where someone is demanding something from another person, often in a context where there is an expectation or obligation. The term implies a degree of authority or right to request or require something.
2. Bauer-Danker-Arndt-Gingrich (BDAG) Greek-English Lexicon: BDAG elaborates on ἀπαιτέω, noting that it means “to demand” or “to require.” BDAG provides examples of its usage in the New Testament, where it denotes making a demand or claim, often related to legal or contractual obligations. The term conveys the sense of seeking something that is rightfully owed or expected.
3. Liddell-Scott-Jones (LSJ) Greek-English Lexicon: LSJ defines ἀπαιτέω as “to demand” or “to require,” focusing on its use in classical Greek literature. LSJ highlights that the term is used to express a strong request or claim for something, often with a sense of entitlement or necessity.
4. Thayer’s Greek-English Lexicon: Thayer’s describes ἀπαιτέω as “to demand” or “to require,” emphasizing its use in contexts where something is being sought or claimed as a right. Thayer’s notes that the term can refer to demanding payment or fulfillment of an obligation.

In summary, ἀπαιτέω (apaíteō) means “to demand” or “to require,” with usage encompassing the act of requesting or insisting on something with authority or obligation. Strong’s Concordance, BDAG, LSJ, and Thayer’s Greek-English Lexicon all align in defining the term as involving a demand or claim for something that is expected or owed.