ἐξερευνάω (exereunaō)
exereunaō
to search out
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb exereunaō means to search out or examine with careful diligence. It combines a prefix indicating thoroughness with a root meaning to investigate, creating a sense of active, persistent inquiry. In the New Testament, it appears only once, in 1 Peter 1:10, where it describes the prophets who searched intently for the timing and nature of the salvation promised to them.
This word carries a weight of serious attention rather than casual observation. The sources note its use in the Septuagint for Hebrew verbs like chaqar, which implies digging deep or scrutinizing closely. By employing this term, Peter highlights the prophets’ earnest effort to understand God’s plan, even when the full picture remained hidden from them.
The rarity of exereunaō in Scripture underscores its specific focus on diligent investigation. It reminds readers that biblical understanding often comes through patient, careful study rather than instant revelation. The word itself points to a process of uncovering truth through sustained effort and reverence for what is being sought.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word exereunaō describes a search marked by intense diligence and careful examination. In 1 Peter 1:10, it portrays the ancient prophets who searched out the meaning of the salvation they foretold. They did not merely glance at God’s promises; they dug deep into Scripture, striving to understand the timing and nature of the grace that would eventually come through Christ.
This word invites us to view our own study of the Bible with similar seriousness. Spiritual understanding is rarely a casual discovery. It often requires patient inquiry and a willingness to sit with questions until clarity emerges. Like the prophets, we may not see the full picture immediately, but our earnest seeking honors God.
When you feel uncertain about a passage or a life situation, remember that diligent search is a form of worship. God values the effort you make to know Him better. This persistent inquiry builds faith, as each step of understanding draws you closer to the truth He has revealed.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- searched out diligently1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἐξηραύνησαν1×
Key Verses
-
I Peter 1:10
Concerning this salvation, the prophets sought and searched diligently. They prophesied of the grace that would come to you,
This is the only New Testament occurrence, where it emphasizes the prophets' intense effort to understand the salvation they predicted.