ἐπερώτημα

inquiry, request, appeal

Definition

ἐπερώτημα (eperōtēma) primarily means 'inquiry' or 'request,' but in its sole New Testament occurrence in 1 Peter 3:21, it carries the specialized sense of a 'pledge' or 'appeal.' In this context, it refers to the believer's response to God—the act of asking for or pledging oneself to a good conscience through the resurrection of Jesus Christ. This shifts the focus from a simple question to a solemn commitment made before God. Thus, the word encompasses both the idea of an appeal made to God and the resulting pledge of faithfulness from a cleansed conscience.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in 1 Peter 3:21. Here, it describes the believer's response in baptism, which is not merely a physical washing but 'an appeal to God for a good conscience.' The usage is highly theological, connecting the ritual of baptism to a personal, conscious commitment to God through Christ's resurrection.

Etymology

Derived from the verb ἐπερωτάω (eperōtaō), meaning 'to ask,' 'to question,' or 'to request.' The noun form ἐπερώτημα thus denotes the act or result of asking—an inquiry, request, or demand. Its development into the sense of a 'pledge' in 1 Peter 3:21 comes from the idea of a directed appeal to God that implies a commitment.

Semantic Range

This word is crucial for understanding the New Testament theology of baptism. In 1 Peter 3:21, it clarifies that baptism's power lies not in water but in the believer's 'appeal' to God—a conscious pledge of faith and request for a cleansed conscience, made effective by Christ's resurrection. It emphasizes the internal, covenantal response of faith over external ritual, enriching the reading by highlighting baptism as an active engagement with God's promise.

In ancient Greek culture, ἐπερώτημα could refer to a formal inquiry or demand, often in legal or diplomatic contexts. The New Testament's use as a 'pledge' to God reflects a Jewish and early Christian understanding of covenant relationships, where a solemn appeal to God implies a binding commitment. This differs from a modern casual request, carrying weighty, relational consequences.

αἴτημα (aitēma, G155) — a petition or request, generally for a thing desired; δεήσις (deēsis, G1162) — an entreaty or supplication, often implying need; ὁμολογία (homologia, G3671) — a confession or agreement, emphasizing verbal acknowledgment.

Word Details

Scripture References