ἐπαιτέω

From the study of Luke 16:3

Range of meaning

To ask for in addition, and especially to beg or ask for alms. In the NT it occurs only here and, in some manuscripts, at Luke 18:35 for the blind beggar of Jericho (others read the related prosaiteō).

Against the English

Universally 'beg'.

Used elsewhere in the period

Sirach 40:28 (2nd century BC Jewish wisdom, in Greek): 'My child, do not live the life of a beggar (zōēn epaitēseōs); it is better to die than to beg (epaitein).' Sirach 40:29–30 goes on to say that a man who lives off another's table has a life not worth calling life, and that begging is sweet in the mouth of the shameless.

From the study of Luke 18:35

Range of meaning

To beg, to ask for alms. The prefix ep- gives 'asking repeatedly' or 'asking for more', and the word became the standard term for living by begging.

Against the English

'Begging' is accurate. Modern readers may picture an individual hard-luck case. In the ancient setting it described a recognized but shameful way of life, often the only one open to a disabled person with no family support.

Used elsewhere in the period

Psalm 108:10 LXX (109:10 in English Bibles) curses an enemy: 'let his children wander and beg'. Sirach 40:28–30 warns, 'My child, do not lead the life of a beggar; it is better to die than to beg', calling begging shameful. In Luke 16:3 the dishonest manager says, 'I am ashamed to beg' (epaitein aischynomai).