[Greek] ἀγρεύω (agreuō), [Latin] captare, [Latin] illudere: to catch, to catch in a mistake, to trap in a verbal exchange, to entrap, to hunt after, to pursue eagerly; Mt.12:13
The Tribute Money: painting by Peter Paul Rubens (1612)
Background information:
Greek Hellenism: This term means to take by hunting (or fishing), to take prey, to catch, and to have a thirst for something. Euripides’ Bacchae 1204 states “You who dwell in this fair-towered city of the Theban land, come to see the prey which the daughters of Kadmos hunted down.” Herodotus’ The Histories 2.95 states “Every one of them has a net, with which he catches fish by day, and at night he sets is around the bed where he rests and sleeps.” Euripides’ Bacchae 138 states “Whenever after the running dance, he falls on the ground, wearing the sacred fawn skin, hunting the blood of the slain goat.”
Old Testament: This term means to catch in a trap, to capture, to be caught in a snare, to take, to acquire, to enclose, to confine, and to besiege. Nobah went and took Kenath and its villages (Num.32:41). We captured all his cities at that time (Deu.3:4). Lamech took to himself two wives (Gen.4:19). And the woman was taken into Pharaoh’s house (Gen.12:15). Please let a little water be brouth and wash your feet (Gen.18:4). They came and besieged him in Abel Beth-maacah (2Sam.10:15). You have enclosed me behind and before (Psa.139:5).
New Testament: This term, used only once, means to trap in a verbal exchange. Some Pharisees and Herodians were sent to intentionally trap Jesus concerning paying taxes to the Emperor. They intended to force Jesus to be on the record stating views contrary to the people or to the Roman authorities. In response, Jesus calls into mind the obligation (debt) paid to two sources of authority: God and Caesar. Jesus mentions one must pay what is due to both. When they heard this, they were amazed and walked away.
Scripture:
“They sent some Pharisees and Herodians to Him to ensnare Him in His speech.” Mk.12:13
They were intentionally trying to trick Jesus in stating opinions contrary to His people or to the Roman authorities.
Conclusion:
Capture, illusion, illude
In the Greco-Hellenistic era, this term is found in various ways (literal and metaphorical). The more literal uses involve holding someone prisoner and trapping an animal. The more nuanced use refers to having a “thirst” for something and to have a net enclosed bed (canopy).
In the Old Testament era, this term is used extensively. It is interesting to note that marriage involves taking a wife. Perhaps in some cases (from the woman’s perspective), this may feel like being possessed or trapped.
In the New Testament, this term is used as a metaphorical form of trapping or ensnaring. The Jewish authorities wanted to put Jesus on record for stating views against His people or the Roman authorities. Jesus saw behind their plans and confounded them.
In a sense, Jesus caught them by surprise! They never had a chance (to escape).