Brief Overview of αἰτέω (G154)

The Greek word αἰτέω (aiteō) means “to ask” or “to request.” It involves making a request or demand for something. This term can refer to asking for information, seeking something from someone, or making a formal request. In various contexts, it may also imply a more urgent or earnest request.

Detailed Overview

1. Strong’s Concordance:

• G154 αἰτέω (aiteō): Strong’s defines this term as “to ask” or “to request.” It is used to describe the act of making a request or seeking something from someone. This includes asking for help, information, or resources. The term is used in both everyday contexts and in formal requests, reflecting a broad application of seeking or asking (e.g., Matthew 7:7; John 14:13).

1. Thayer’s Greek Lexicon:

• According to Thayer’s, αἰτέω means “to ask” or “to request.” Thayer’s elaborates that the term is used to denote the act of asking for something, whether it be for information, assistance, or material goods. It can involve both casual and formal requests, emphasizing the requestor’s need or desire (e.g., Matthew 7:7; John 14:13). Thayer’s highlights the term’s use in a variety of asking scenarios, from simple queries to earnest petitions.

1. Brown-Driver-Briggs (BDB) Lexicon:

• BDB describes αἰτέω as “to ask” or “to request.” The lexicon notes that this term encompasses the act of making a request or seeking something, ranging from simple inquiries to more formal demands. It is used to reflect a broad spectrum of asking scenarios, including requests for information or assistance (e.g., Matthew 7:7; John 14:13). BDB’s explanation emphasizes the term’s versatility in expressing different types of requests.

1. Liddell-Scott-Jones (LSJ) Greek-English Lexicon:

• The LSJ Lexicon defines αἰτέω as “to ask” or “to request.” It describes the act of making a request or seeking something from another person. This term is used in a variety of contexts, from simple requests to more urgent or formal demands (e.g., Matthew 7:7; John 14:13). LSJ highlights the term’s application in expressing the need or desire for something through asking.

In summary, αἰτέω refers to the act of asking or requesting something, covering a range of contexts from casual inquiries to formal demands, as used in classical and New Testament Greek.