בָּקַשׁ
to search out (by any method, specifically in worship or prayer); by implication, to strive after
Definition
The Hebrew verb בָּקַשׁ (bâqash) fundamentally means 'to seek' or 'to search for,' often with a sense of earnest effort or desire. In its most basic sense, it describes a physical search for a person or thing, as when Joseph's brothers seek him (Genesis 37:15-16). More significantly, it frequently denotes seeking God in worship, prayer, or for guidance, implying a wholehearted pursuit, as seen in passages like Deuteronomy 4:29 and 2 Chronicles 7:14. The word can also carry a judicial or hostile sense, meaning to demand, require, or seek someone's life, as when Pharaoh seeks to kill Moses (Exodus 2:15) or God seeks an accounting from a shepherd (Genesis 31:39).
Biblical Usage
בָּקַשׁ is used 214 times across the Old Testament, appearing in narrative, legal, prophetic, and wisdom literature. It commonly describes seeking God or His favor, especially in Deuteronomy, the Psalms, and the Prophets (e.g., Isaiah 55:6, Amos 5:4). In historical books, it often depicts searching for people or making requests (Genesis 43:9, 1 Samuel 13:14). A notable pattern is its use in covenantal contexts, where Israel is commanded to 'seek the LORD' wholeheartedly. The word's meaning shifts based on context: it is neutral for a simple search, positive for seeking God, and negative when seeking to harm.
Etymology
בָּקַשׁ is a primitive root verb. Its core meaning relates to searching or investigating. Cognates exist in other Semitic languages, like Akkadian 'baqāšu' (to ask, request) and Arabic 'baḡā' (to desire, seek), pointing to an ancient root concept of striving toward or inquiring after something. The Hebrew meaning developed to encompass both the physical act of searching and the spiritual/intentional act of seeking a relationship.
Semantic Range
This word is theologically significant as it captures the active, relational dynamic between humanity and God. The command to 'seek the LORD' (דָּרַשׁ, dârash, is also used) is central to Israel's covenant life (1 Chronicles 16:11, Jeremiah 29:13). It implies not a passive hope but a diligent pursuit with one's whole being. Understanding בָּקַשׁ enriches reading by highlighting that knowing God requires intentional effort and desire, a theme that culminates in promises to those who seek Him (Proverbs 8:17). It contrasts with God's initiative in seeking humanity, as depicted with other verbs.
In ancient Near Eastern culture, 'seeking' a deity often involved pilgrimage to a sanctuary, prayer, and sacrifice. For Israel, seeking Yahweh was distinct from pagan practices, as it was tied to obedience to the covenant law and was not merely ritualistic but ethical (Micah 6:8). The concept of 'seeking someone's life' reflects the high value placed on life and the seriousness of bloodguilt, governed by strict legal and kinship protocols.
דָּרַשׁ (dârash, H1875) — Often overlaps, but can emphasize seeking through inquiry, study, or demanding an answer. שָׁאַל (shâ'al, H7592) — Primarily means to ask, request, or inquire; less intense striving than בָּקַשׁ. חָפַשׂ (châphas, H2664) — To search diligently or thoroughly, often physically (like rummaging).
Word Details
How this works
Hebrew definitions are from Brown-Driver-Briggs (1906) and Strong's Exhaustive Concordance (1890), both public domain. BDB was groundbreaking for its era but reflects 19th-century assumptions about Semitic etymology. Modern scholarship (HALOT, DCH) has revised many entries. Use these definitions as a starting point for exploration, not as the final word on a term's meaning in context.
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