The term "besoughtest" is an archaic form of the verb "beseech," which means to earnestly request or implore. In the context of the Bible, it often conveys a deep sense of urgency and humility in prayer or petition. The use of "besoughtest" is primarily found in older translations of the Bible, reflecting the language style of the time.

Biblical Usage and Context

In the Scriptures, beseeching is a common theme, reflecting the human need to seek divine intervention, guidance, or mercy. The act of beseeching is often directed towards God, highlighting the relationship between the Creator and His creation, where humans recognize their dependence on God's power and grace.

Old Testament Examples

While the specific term "besoughtest" may not appear in the Berean Standard Bible, the concept of beseeching is prevalent throughout the Old Testament. For instance, in the book of Exodus, Moses frequently beseeches God on behalf of the Israelites. In Exodus 32:11 , Moses implores the Lord: "But Moses sought the favor of the LORD his God, saying, 'O LORD, why does Your anger burn against Your people, whom You brought out of the land of Egypt with great power and a mighty hand?'"

This passage illustrates the role of a mediator, where Moses stands in the gap for the people, earnestly seeking God's mercy and favor.

New Testament Examples

In the New Testament, beseeching is often seen in the context of Jesus' ministry, where individuals approach Him with urgent requests for healing or help. In Mark 5:23 , Jairus, a synagogue leader, beseeches Jesus: "He pleaded earnestly with Him, 'My little daughter is near death. Please come and place Your hands on her, so that she will be healed and live.'"

This example demonstrates the faith and desperation of those who recognized Jesus' authority and power to heal and save.

Theological Significance

The act of beseeching in the Bible underscores the importance of prayer and supplication in the believer's life. It reflects a posture of humility, acknowledging one's own limitations and the sovereignty of God. Beseeching is not merely a request but an expression of faith, trust, and dependence on God's will and timing.

In the Pauline epistles, the Apostle Paul frequently uses the term "beseech" to urge believers to live in a manner worthy of their calling. For example, in Romans 12:1 , Paul writes, "Therefore I urge you, brothers, on account of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, which is your spiritual service of worship."

Here, the beseeching is not directed towards God but towards fellow believers, encouraging them to respond to God's grace with a life of holiness and dedication.

Conclusion

The concept of beseeching in the Bible is a powerful reminder of the believer's relationship with God, characterized by earnest prayer, humility, and faith. Whether seeking divine intervention or urging others towards godliness, the act of beseeching reflects a heart aligned with God's purposes and a life committed to His service.

Therefore the Kingdom of Heaven is Like a Certain King...
... [1879] Then his lord called him, and said unto him, Thou wicked servant, all that
debt I forgave thee, because [11] thou besoughtest me: [1880] was it not then ...
/.../hogg/the diatessaron of tatian/section xxvii therefore the kingdom.htm

Forgiveness.
... Then his lord called him unto him, and saith to him, 'Thou wicked servant, I forgave
thee all that debt, because thou besoughtest me: shouldst not thou also ...
//christianbookshelf.org/barton/his life/forgiveness.htm

Sin and Forgiveness Between Brethren.
... sin in others.] 32 Then his lord called him unto him, and saith to him, Thou wicked
servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou besoughtest me: 33 ...
/.../mcgarvey/the four-fold gospel/lxxiv sin and forgiveness between.htm

Matt. xviii. 21
... [RV omits "all" in this verse, with the best authorities. Probably taken from verse
26.--R.]. [2369] [RV, "besoughtest."]. [2370] Matthew 18:32. ...
/.../chrysostom/homilies on the gospel of saint matthew/homily lxi matt xviii 21.htm

Besoughtest (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Besoughtest (1 Occurrence). Matthew 18:32 Then
his lord called him unto him, and saith to him, Thou wicked ...
/b/besoughtest.htm - 6k

Besought (57 Occurrences)
... Matthew 18:32 Then his lord called him unto him, and saith to him, Thou wicked servant,
I forgave thee all that debt, because thou besoughtest me: (Root in ASV ...
/b/besought.htm - 23k

Bondman (108 Occurrences)
... (DBY). Matthew 18:32 Then his lord, having called him to him, says to him, Wicked
bondman! I forgave thee all that debt because thou besoughtest me; (DBY). ...
/b/bondman.htm - 36k

Says (1491 Occurrences)
... (BBE DBY). Matthew 18:32 Then his lord, having called him to him, says to him, Wicked
bondman! I forgave thee all that debt because thou besoughtest me; (DBY). ...
/s/says.htm - 34k

Best (252 Occurrences)

/b/best.htm - 36k

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