ἐπερωτάω

I interrogate, question, demand of

Definition

The verb ἐπερωτάω means to ask, inquire, or question someone. In the New Testament, it most commonly describes a formal inquiry or interrogation, often in a legal or disputational context, as when the Pharisees question Jesus to test him (Matthew 22:35). It can also denote a simple request for information, as when the disciples ask Jesus about the prophecy concerning Elijah (Matthew 17:10). In some instances, it carries the sense of demanding an answer or pressing a question, highlighting a confrontational dialogue, such as when Jesus himself questions the religious leaders, leaving them unable to reply (Matthew 22:46).

Biblical Usage

ἐπερωτάω is used 58 times across the Gospels, Acts, and the Epistles, with a heavy concentration in the Synoptic Gospels where it describes the frequent questioning between Jesus and various groups—Pharisees, Sadducees, disciples, and Roman authorities like Pilate (Matthew 27:11). In the Gospel of John, it is used less frequently but similarly for significant dialogues. In Acts and the Epistles, it appears in contexts of inquiry and instruction, such as when believers ask questions of church leaders (1 Corinthians 14:35). The word consistently portrays a directed, purposeful asking, often to gain understanding or to challenge.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition ἐπί (epi, meaning 'upon' or 'in addition') and the verb ἐρωτάω (erōtaō, meaning 'to ask' or 'to request'). The compound form ἐπερωτάω can intensify the basic sense of asking, sometimes implying a follow-up question, a pressing inquiry, or an official interrogation. Its root shares a connection with the more common verb for asking, ἐρωτάω, but often appears in more formal or adversarial contexts in the New Testament.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it illuminates the nature of dialogue and revelation in the Gospels. The questions posed to Jesus—and his questions in return—often serve as catalysts for profound teaching, revealing truth, exposing hypocrisy, or affirming his identity (e.g., Matthew 22:41-46). Understanding this term enriches reading by highlighting that these are not casual conversations but purposeful engagements central to Jesus's ministry of instruction and confrontation with the religious establishment. It underscores that seeking and questioning, when done with a sincere heart, is part of engaging with divine truth.

In the Greco-Roman and Jewish cultural setting, formal questioning was a respected method of teaching (rabbinic dialogue) and legal procedure. The use of ἐπερωτάω in adversarial contexts reflects the common practice of public debate and testing among teachers. For modern readers, the word's range—from simple inquiry to legal interrogation—may be broader than the English 'ask,' reminding us that these biblical conversations often carried significant rhetorical and social weight, with answers having public consequences for honor and authority.

ἐρωτάω (erōtaō, G2065) — A more general term for asking or requesting, often used for petitions. αἰτέω (aiteō, G154) — To ask, beg, or demand, frequently used in contexts of prayer or asking from a superior.

Word Details

Scripture References