Epithumeo denotes wanting something intensely, whether a forbidden object or act, a hoped-for experience, or relief from need.

The verb most often marks desire directed toward what is forbidden or opposed, including evil things, another person, and possessions; it also describes earnest aspiration for a good work or desired encounter, and longing where food, a hoped-for sight, or death is not obtained.

1. Desiring what is forbidden or opposed · dominant

   In 1 Corinthians 10:6 the aorist plural occurs in the warning against desiring evil things, while in Matthew 5:28 the aorist infinitive is attached to looking at a woman with desire. Romans 13:9 and Romans 7:7 place the future singular form in the command not to covet, and Galatians 5:17 describes the flesh as desiring against the Spirit.

   1 Corinthians 10:6Matthew 5:28Romans 13:9Romans 7:7Galatians 5:17James 4:2
2. Earnest desire for a hoped-for good · common

   In 1 Timothy 3:1 the present singular is used of desiring a good work of oversight, and Hebrews 6:11 has a present plural desire that each person show earnestness to the end. In Matthew 13:17, Luke 17:22, and Luke 22:15, the verb concerns wanting to see, hear, or eat a specified thing.

   1 Timothy 3:1Hebrews 6:11Matthew 13:17Luke 17:22Luke 22:151 Peter 1:12
3. Craving amid deprivation or distress · occasional

   In Luke 15:16 the imperfect singular describes a man wanting to fill his stomach with pods but receiving nothing; Luke 16:21 similarly presents a man longing for what fell from a rich man's table. Revelation 9:6 uses the future plural for people who will long to die while death flees from them.

   Luke 15:16Luke 16:21Revelation 9:6

In the Anselm Project Bible: The APB variously uses “desire,” “longed,” “coveted,” and “aspires” in these verses. These renderings reflect the verses' differing contexts.