UBS Dictionary of the Greek New Testament

Sense 1: to knock

Semantic entry: 19.12

Semantic domains: Physical Impact

Subdomains: Hit, Strike

Definition: to knock on a door, as a means of signaling one’s presence to those inside

Notes: A literal rendering of κρούω in RV MAT 7:7 · LV MAT 7:7 · Read together MAT 7:7 may be misleading in a number of languages, since in some areas only thieves knock on doors. This is done in order to determine whether anyone is at home, in which case, of course, the thief runs off. The more general practice for signaling one’s presence may be to cough, to clap the hands, or to call out one’s name.