Introduction

In Biblical studies, understanding the original Greek words used in the New Testament helps uncover deeper meanings and insights that are often lost in translation. The Greek word ἐξαιτέω (exaiteō) is particularly significant because it carries the connotation of asking or demanding something with insistence or intensity. This word is relevant for interpreting the New Testament, especially in understanding human interaction, prayer, and petitions made to God or others in authority. Its usage reflects both ancient Greek culture’s dynamics of request and authority, providing valuable context for both theological and historical studies.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: ἐξαιτέω (exaiteō) [eks-a-ee-TEH-oh]
• Etymology: Derived from ἐκ (ek), meaning “out of,” and αἰτέω (aiteō), meaning “to ask” or “to demand.”
• Part of Speech: Verb; generally used in the middle voice.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• To ask or demand urgently.
• To request intensely or beg earnestly.
• To insist on or seek to obtain.

Similar Words: αἰτέω (aiteō) [ai-TEH-oh] is closely related to ἐξαιτέω. While αἰτέω simply means “to ask” or “to request,” ἐξαιτέω intensifies this by implying urgency or insistence, often in a context where there is a pressing need or strong desire.

Further Insights: ἐξαιτέω is a compound verb formed by adding the prefix ἐκ (out of) to αἰτέω. This combination suggests a request or demand that seeks a decisive or resolute outcome, highlighting the determination of the requester. Below is a table showing the full declension of ἐξαιτέω in the middle voice:

Lexicon Insights

BDAG: Describes ἐξαιτέω as “to ask for with urgency or demand insistently,” often with the connotation of an intense or fervent request. It is used in contexts involving prayer, legal petitions, or earnest demands made to God or persons in authority.

Thayers: Explains ἐξαιτέω as “to beg earnestly, to request urgently.” Thayer’s highlights its usage in passages where the requester demonstrates a strong need or desperation, emphasizing the intensity of the action.

Vines: Notes that ἐξαιτέω carries a sense of “demanding or imploring with great intensity.” It is often found in contexts of prayer or legal proceedings, where the outcome sought is of great importance to the requester.

LSJ: Focuses on classical uses of ἐξαιτέω, pointing to meanings such as “to demand,” “to ask for as one’s right,” or “to call upon earnestly.” It is used in legal and social contexts where individuals assertively seek justice or favor.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Defines ἐξαιτέω as “to demand or ask urgently,” providing examples of its usage in various New Testament passages to illustrate its strong sense of request or demand.

Scripture References

• Luke 22:31 – “And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired (ἐξαιτέω) to have you, that he may sift you as wheat.”

Classical Usage

Septuagint Usage

Summary of ἐξαιτέω (G1809: exaiteō)

The Greek word ἐξαιτέω (exaiteō) conveys a powerful sense of asking, demanding, or imploring with urgency and intensity. Its usage in the New Testament and classical literature reflects both legal and religious contexts, where it often describes fervent prayers or demands for justice and favor. By understanding the nuances of this word, students of the Bible and Greek culture can better grasp the depth of human emotion and intent expressed in both Scripture and ancient Greek texts.

Did You Know?

Did You Know? The word ἐξαιτέω was often used in ancient Greek courtrooms and assemblies where citizens would urgently plead for justice or appeal for rights. This term’s intensity showcases how language shapes the understanding of legal and social dynamics in ancient Greece.