The word ‘beseech’ appears frequently in the Bible, particularly in older translations like the King James Version (KJV). It carries a deep sense of urgency, humility, and reverence. To beseech means to plead, earnestly request, or fervently ask for something, often in a desperate or respectful manner.
Understanding the meaning of ‘beseech’ in the Bible provides insight into how believers should approach God in prayer, seek His will, and interact with others in faith. This topic explores the biblical definition of beseech, its significance in scripture, and how we can apply it in our daily lives.
What Does ‘Beseech’ Mean in the Bible?
1. Definition of Beseech
The term ‘beseech’ is derived from the Old English word ‘besecan,’ meaning to ask earnestly or entreat. In biblical context, it implies:
- A deep, heartfelt plea
- An urgent request
- A humble approach
In Greek, the word often translated as ‘beseech’ is ‘parakaleà³’, meaning to call near, exhort, or encourage. In Hebrew, it aligns with words like ‘chanan’, meaning to seek favor or mercy.
2. Difference Between Beseech, Pray, and Ask
While ‘pray’ generally refers to any communication with God, ‘beseech’ is more intense, indicating a passionate, desperate plea. It conveys a sense of urgency that goes beyond a simple request.
For example:
- ‘Ask’ – A general request (e.g., Matthew 7:7: ‘Ask, and it shall be given you.’)
- ‘Pray’ – A reverent conversation with God (e.g., Philippians 4:6: ‘In everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.’)
- ‘Beseech’ – A deep, heartfelt plea (e.g., Romans 12:1: ‘I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God…’)
Biblical Examples of Beseeching
1. Beseeching God for Mercy
One of the most common uses of ‘beseech’ in the Bible is when people cry out to God for mercy.
- Psalm 86:6-7 – ‘Give ear, O Lord, unto my prayer; and attend to the voice of my supplications. In the day of my trouble I will call upon thee: for thou wilt answer me.’
King David frequently beseeched God for help in times of distress. This reflects the humility and dependence believers should have when seeking God’s intervention.
2. Beseeching for Forgiveness
Throughout the Bible, people beseech God for forgiveness when they recognize their sins.
- Daniel 9:18-19 – ‘O my God, incline thine ear, and hear; open thine eyes, and behold our desolations… O Lord, hear; O Lord, forgive; O Lord, hearken and do; defer not, for thine own sake.’
This passage demonstrates how true repentance involves beseeching God with sincerity and urgency.
3. Beseeching for Guidance
Many biblical figures beseeched God for wisdom and guidance before making important decisions.
- Moses frequently beseeched God for direction while leading the Israelites.
- Solomon beseeched God for wisdom instead of wealth or power.
James 1:5 states: ‘If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.’
This encourages believers to beseech God for wisdom in their daily lives.
How Paul Used the Word ‘Beseech’
The Apostle Paul frequently used the word ‘beseech’ in his letters to urge believers to live righteously.
1. Beseeching for a Holy Life
- Romans 12:1 – ‘I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.
Paul pleads with believers to live a life dedicated to God, emphasizing that it is not an option but a reasonable act of worship.
2. Beseeching for Unity
- 1 Corinthians 1:10 – ‘Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you.’
Paul urgently calls for unity in the church, showing that division weakens the body of Christ.
3. Beseeching for Reconciliation
- 2 Corinthians 5:20 – ‘Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God.’
Paul acts as a representative of Christ, beseeching people to reconcile with God. This highlights the importance of sharing the Gospel.
How to Apply the Concept of Beseeching in Our Lives
1. Develop a Heart of Earnest Prayer
Believers should approach God with sincerity and urgency when praying. This includes:
- Seeking His mercy
- Asking for forgiveness
- Praying for guidance
Hebrews 4:16 reminds us: ‘Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.’
2. Be Persistent in Seeking God
Jesus encouraged persistent prayer in the parable of the persistent widow (Luke 18:1-8). Just like the widow continually pleaded with the judge, we should beseech God continually in faith.
3. Encourage Others in Their Faith
Paul beseeched believers to live according to God’s will. We, too, should:
- Encourage others to grow spiritually
- Exhort fellow believers to live holy lives
- Speak truth in love when correcting others
4. Live in Humility Before God
Beseeching requires humilityâacknowledging our need for God’s help.
- James 4:10 – ‘Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.’
Humility allows us to approach God with the right attitude.
The word ‘beseech’ in the Bible carries deep spiritual significance. It represents:
â Earnest prayer and pleading
â A humble approach to God
â An urgent call to righteousness and unity
By understanding how and why people beseeched God in scripture, we learn how to pray more fervently, seek God wholeheartedly, and encourage others in faith.
Let us always beseech God with sincerity, knowing that He hears and answers those who diligently seek Him.