ἐξετάζω

I examine, question, search out

Definition

ἐξετάζω means to examine thoroughly, question carefully, or search out diligently. In Matthew 2:8, Herod uses the word to command the Magi to 'search out' the child Jesus, implying a careful, investigative inquiry. In Matthew 10:11, Jesus instructs his disciples to 'inquire' or 'find out' who is worthy in a town, suggesting a process of discernment. In John 21:12, the disciples are described as not daring to 'question' the risen Jesus, indicating a respectful but probing examination of his identity. The word consistently carries the sense of a deliberate, often formal, process of seeking information or verification.

Biblical Usage

ἐξετάζω appears three times in the New Testament, each in a distinct narrative context. In Matthew 2:8, it is used in a command by Herod, framing a political and deceptive search. In Matthew 10:11, it is part of Jesus's missionary instructions, denoting a practical, discerning inquiry for hospitality. In John 21:12, it describes the disciples' awe-filled hesitation to interrogate the resurrected Lord. The word is used only in narrative passages (Gospels) and always involves a significant personal inquiry—whether sinister, practical, or reverent.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition ἐξ (ek, meaning 'out of') and the verb root related to ἐτάζω (etazō, 'to examine' or 'test'). The compound emphasizes a thorough or exhaustive examination, literally 'to examine out' or 'search out completely.' It shares a conceptual field with words like ἀνακρίνω (anakrinō, G350) meaning to judge or examine judicially, but ἐξετάζω often focuses more on the investigative process itself.

Semantic Range

This word highlights themes of divine inquiry and human discernment. Herod's 'searching' in Matthew 2 contrasts with the Magi's worship, showing how the same action can be driven by opposing motives—one destructive, one reverent. Jesus's instruction in Matthew 10:11 places value on spiritual discernment in ministry. In John 21:12, the disciples' restraint in questioning underscores the profound mystery and authority of the resurrection. Understanding ἐξετάζω enriches reading by revealing that inquiry in the biblical narrative is never neutral; it is always tied to one's posture toward God's revelation.

In the Greco-Roman world, ἐξετάζω could be used in legal, philosophical, and investigative contexts, implying a formal or systematic inquiry. Herod's usage reflects a ruler's command for an official investigation. The disciples' reluctance to question Jesus in John 21 aligns with cultural norms of respect toward a superior or a divine figure, where direct questioning could be seen as presumptuous.

ἀνακρίνω (anakrinō, G350) — often implies a judicial examination or cross-examination. ἐπερωτάω (eperōtaō, G1905) — a more general term for asking or questioning. ζητέω (zēteō, G2212) — to seek or search for, with a broader focus on the object sought rather than the process of inquiry.

Word Details

Scripture References