Strong's Lexicon prosaiteo: To beg, to ask for alms Original Word: προσαιτέω Word Origin: From πρός (pros, meaning "toward" or "in addition to") and αἰτέω (aiteo, meaning "to ask" or "to beg") Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: The Hebrew equivalent often associated with begging or asking earnestly is שָׁאַל (sha'al, Strong's Hebrew 7592), which means "to ask" or "to request." Usage: The verb προσαιτέω is used in the New Testament to describe the act of begging or asking for alms. It conveys a sense of earnest or humble request, often in the context of someone in need seeking help from others. This term is typically associated with those who are poor or destitute, relying on the charity of others for their sustenance. Cultural and Historical Background: In the Greco-Roman world, begging was a common sight, especially in urban areas. The social structure of the time left many without means of support, including the disabled, widows, and orphans. Beggars would often position themselves in public places, such as city gates or near temples, where they could encounter people who might be inclined to give alms. The act of giving to beggars was seen as a virtuous deed, aligning with Jewish teachings on charity and compassion for the poor. Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 4319: προσαιτέωπροσαιτέω, προσαίτω; 1. to ask for in addition ((see πρός, IV. 2); Pindar, Aeschylus, others). 2. to approach one with supplications (German anbetteln (to importune; cf. πρός, IV. 4)), to ask alms ((Herodotus), Xenophon, Aristophanes, Euripides, Plutarch, others): Mark 10:46 R G L; Luke 18:35 (where L T Tr WH have ἐπαιτῶν); John 9:8. STRONGS NT 4319a: προσαίτηςπροσαίτης, προσαιτου, ὁ, a beggar: Mark 10:46 T Tr WH; John 9:8 (where for the Rec. τυφλός). (Plutarch, Lucian, (Diogenes Laërtius 6, 56.) From pros and aiteo; to ask repeatedly (importune), i.e. Solicit -- beg. see GREEK pros see GREEK aiteo Englishman's Concordance Mark 10:46 N-NMSGRK: Βαρτίμαιος τυφλὸς προσαίτης ἐκάθητο παρὰ KJV: by the highway side begging. INT: Bartimaeus blind beggar was sitting beside John 9:8 N-NMS John 9:8 V-PPA-NMS Strong's Greek 4319 |
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