The word ‘entreaty’ appears multiple times in the Bible and is closely related to prayer, supplication, and earnest pleading. It refers to a humble and sincere request made to God or another person. In Scripture, entreaty is often associated with seeking God’s favor, mercy, or guidance.
Understanding the biblical meaning of entreaty helps believers deepen their prayer life, faith, and relationship with God. This topic explores the definition, biblical examples, and significance of entreaty in Christian life.
Definition of Entreaty in the Bible
1. What Does ‘Entreaty’ Mean?
The word entreaty comes from the verb ‘entreat,’ which means to ask earnestly, plead, or make a humble request. In the Bible, entreaty often refers to:
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Sincere prayers to God for help or forgiveness.
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Humble requests made between people.
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Petitions seeking favor or divine intervention.
2. Hebrew and Greek Words for Entreaty
In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word ‘chanan’ (חָנַן) is sometimes used for entreaty, meaning to seek grace or favor. Another Hebrew word, ‘athar’ (עָתַר), refers to making an earnest plea or intercession.
In the New Testament, the Greek word ‘deesis’ (δέησις) is used, meaning a heartfelt prayer or request.
3. The Role of Entreaty in the Bible
Entreaty is a powerful act of faith, showing dependence on God. It appears in various forms:
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Prayers of the righteous seeking God’s help.
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Pleading for mercy and forgiveness.
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Requests made between individuals.
Biblical Examples of Entreaty
1. Hannah’s Entreaty for a Child
One of the most well-known examples of entreaty is Hannah’s prayer for a child.
- 1 Samuel 1:10 (KJV) – ‘And she was in bitterness of soul, and prayed unto the Lord, and wept sore.’
Hannah made an earnest entreaty to God, and He answered her by giving her a son, Samuel. This example shows that God hears the sincere cries of His people.
2. Moses’ Entreaty for Israel
Moses often made entreaties to God on behalf of Israel, especially when they sinned.
- Exodus 32:11 (KJV) – ‘And Moses besought the Lord his God, and said, Lord, why doth thy wrath wax hot against thy people?’
Through Moses’ intercession, God showed mercy to Israel. This teaches the importance of praying for others and seeking God’s forgiveness.
3. The Entreaty of the Blind Men
In the New Testament, Jesus responded to entreaties made by those in need.
- Matthew 20:30-31 (KJV) – ‘And, behold, two blind men sitting by the way side, when they heard that Jesus passed by, cried out, saying, Have mercy on us, O Lord, thou Son of David!’
Their earnest plea led to healing, demonstrating that God answers those who sincerely seek Him.
4. The Entreaty of King Hezekiah
When Hezekiah was near death, he made an entreaty to God for more time.
- 2 Kings 20:2-3 (KJV) – ‘Then he turned his face to the wall, and prayed unto the Lord, saying, I beseech thee, O Lord, remember now how I have walked before thee in truth.’
God granted him 15 more years of life, proving that prayer can change circumstances.
The Power of Entreaty in Christian Life
1. Entreaty Strengthens Our Relationship with God
When believers humbly seek God in prayer, they grow closer to Him.
- Psalm 34:17 (KJV) – ‘The righteous cry, and the Lord heareth, and delivereth them out of all their troubles.’
A life of earnest prayer deepens faith and trust in God.
2. Entreaty Brings God’s Mercy and Grace
Throughout the Bible, those who made entreaties to God received His mercy, healing, and guidance.
- Lamentations 3:22 (KJV) – ‘It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not.’
God is compassionate and answers sincere prayers.
3. Entreaty Leads to Forgiveness
Repentant prayers, or entreaties for forgiveness, bring restoration.
- 1 John 1:9 (KJV) – ‘If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins.’
Seeking God’s forgiveness with humility leads to spiritual renewal.
4. Entreaty Can Change Outcomes
God often responds to prayers of faith by changing circumstances.
- James 5:16 (KJV) – ‘The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.’
Prayers made with sincerity and faith have great power.
How to Apply Entreaty in Daily Life
1. Pray with Sincerity and Humility
Biblical entreaties were not casual requests but deep cries from the heart.
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Approach God with humility and faith.
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Pray with honesty and passion.
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Trust in God’s timing and will.
2. Intercede for Others
Like Moses and Jesus, believers should make entreaties for others.
- 1 Timothy 2:1 (KJV) – ‘I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men.’
Praying for others shows love, faith, and obedience to God.
3. Make Entreaties in Difficult Times
When facing hardships, believers should turn to God in prayer.
- Philippians 4:6 (KJV) – ‘Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.’
God is always ready to listen and provide comfort.
4. Persist in Prayer
Many biblical figures did not receive answers immediately, but they remained faithful.
- Luke 18:1 (KJV) – ‘Men ought always to pray, and not to faint.’
Persistent entreaty shows trust and perseverance in faith.
The biblical meaning of entreaty is deeply tied to prayer, supplication, and seeking God’s mercy. Throughout Scripture, those who humbly pleaded with God—whether for healing, forgiveness, or guidance—saw His hand at work.
For Christians today, entreaty remains a powerful way to connect with God. Through earnest prayer and faith, believers can experience God’s mercy, guidance, and transformation in their lives.