to ask
erotao denotes asking, whether requesting an action or putting a question to obtain an answer.
The verb most often introduces a request directed to another person—for presence, help, permission, or a response—while a common use introduces questions seeking information. The same forms occur in direct appeals, reported requests, and questions addressed to Jesus or other interlocutors.
Senses in use
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Making a request or appeal · dominant
The verb introduces requests for another person to act: in Acts 10:48 the APB renders the clause "they asked him to remain some days," and in John 19:38 Joseph addresses Pilate so that he may take up Jesus' body. In John 17:15 the first-person present form introduces a request that the Father keep the disciples from the evil one; Luke 7:3 likewise presents an appeal that Jesus come and heal a slave.
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Putting a question for information · common
The verb also introduces questions whose content seeks an answer. In John 1:21 the APB renders successive questions about John’s identity, while John 9:2 has the disciples ask who sinned in connection with a man born blind. In John 18:19 the high priest asks Jesus about his disciples and teaching, and Luke 23:3 records Pilate's question about kingship.
In the Anselm Project Bible: Across these verses, the APB commonly presents the verb with "asked," "ask," or "asking," and at times uses "appealed" or "beg." These are renderings of whole clauses in a whole-verse translation; the contexts show both requests for action and questions seeking information.