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G2045 · Greek · New Testament
ἐρευνάω
ereunaō
Verb
to search, investigate, examine carefully

Definition

Ereunaō means to search diligently or investigate thoroughly — as one examines a text, explores a subject, or searches for a hidden treasure. In the New Testament it appears in John 5:39 (search the Scriptures), John 7:52 (search and you will find), Romans 8:27 (the Spirit searches hearts), 1 Corinthians 2:10 (the Spirit searches all things, including God's deep things), and 1 Peter 1:10-11 (the prophets searched carefully regarding the Messiah).

Usage & Theological Significance

Two profound uses of ereunaō stand out. First, John 5:39 — Jesus tells His opponents, 'You study [ereunaō] the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life. These are the very Scriptures that testify about me.' The searching is commended; but the result — missing the One the Scriptures point to — is the ultimate tragic irony of biblical literacy without transformation. Second, 1 Corinthians 2:10 reveals that the Spirit searches the bathē tou theou — the depths of God. The Spirit has access to the very interior of the divine being and communicates those depths to believers. The searcher of all things is given to those who believe.

Key Bible Verses

1 Corinthians 2:10 But God has revealed it to us by his Spirit. The Spirit searches [ereunaō] all things, even the deep things of God.
John 5:39 You study [ereunaō] the Scriptures diligently because you think that in them you have eternal life. These are the very Scriptures that testify about me.
Romans 8:27 And he who searches [ereunaō] our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit.
1 Peter 1:10-11 Concerning this salvation, the prophets, who spoke of the grace that was to come to you, searched intently [ereunaō] and with the greatest care.
Revelation 2:23 I am he who searches [ereunaō] hearts and minds, and I will repay each of you according to your deeds.

Related Words

External Resources

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