ἀναζητέω (anazēteō)
anazēteō
to search
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 3 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb anazēteō means to seek out or search carefully, often implying that the task is difficult or requires significant effort. In the New Testament, it appears only three times, primarily in the Gospel of Luke and the Acts of the Apostles. This word goes beyond a casual inquiry; it describes a diligent, thorough search for something or someone that is not easily found.
Its force comes from its prefix ana-, which can imply an upward or intensive action, combined with zēteō ("to seek"). The sources note that this term is frequently used in contexts involving the search for human beings, highlighting the persistence required. For instance, Mary and Joseph search for Jesus with great concern after he remains in Jerusalem (Luke 2:45), and Paul seeks out Barnabas to join him on a missionary journey (Acts 11:25). This usage underscores a determined effort to locate someone despite obstacles or uncertainty.
Translators typically render anazēteō as "search for" or "look for," though the Greek carries a weight of urgency and thoroughness that simple English equivalents might miss. The word appears in the Septuagint as well, translating Hebrew terms like darash and baqash, which also convey a sense of earnest seeking. This continuity connects the New Testament usage to a broader biblical tradition of pursuing God or others with diligence.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
When we use the word anazēteō, we are talking about a search that goes deeper than a quick glance. It describes the kind of effort you put in when something truly matters to you. Think of Mary and Joseph in Jerusalem. They did not just assume Jesus was with their friends; they went back into the city, searching through crowds and relatives until they found him. This word captures that mix of worry and determination.
In our own lives, this kind of seeking often happens when we feel lost or when we need to reconnect with what is important. It might be looking for a friend who has drifted away, or searching your heart for clarity during a difficult season. The Bible shows us that God values this earnest effort. He does not expect casual interest; He meets us when we are willing to look carefully and persistently for Him and for those around us.
This persistent search is a sign of love and care. Whether you are looking for guidance or trying to find your way back to a relationship, know that your sincere effort is seen. There is comfort in knowing that the same God who guided Mary and Joseph is present when we seek with a genuine heart.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- were seeking1×
- to seek1×
- searching1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἀνεζήτουν1×
- ἀναζητῆσαι1×
- ἀναζητοῦντες1×
Key Verses
-
Luke 2:45
When they didn’t find him, they returned to Jerusalem, looking for him.
This verse highlights the urgency of the search, as Mary and Joseph return to Jerusalem specifically because their initial hope was not fulfilled.
-
Acts 11:25
Barnabas went out to Tarsus to look for Saul.
Here the word shows intentional action, as Barnabas travels to Tarsus with a clear purpose to locate Saul for ministry work.
-
Luke 2:44
but supposing him to be in the company, they went a day’s journey; and they looked for him among their relatives and acquaintances.
This occurrence sets the scene by showing the thoroughness of the search among relatives and acquaintances before realizing Jesus was missing.