Boyd’s Bible Dictionary:
(asker). Pauperism was discouraged (Lev. 19:10; 25:5-6; Deut. 24:19). Poor invited to feasts (Deut. 14:29; 26:12). Beggars abhorred (Psa. 109:10). In N. T. times beggars had a fixed place to beg (Mark 10:46; Acts 3:2; Luke 16:20).
Concise Bible Dictionary:
In the Old Testament earthly prosperity was a sign of blessing. The Psalmist said that during the whole of his life he had not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread (Psa. 37:25); whereas of a wicked one, typical of Judas, it is said, “Let his children be continually vagabonds and beg” (Psa. 109:10); but in bringing in strength and salvation Jehovah “lifteth up the beggar from the dunghill, to set them among princes” (1 Sam. 2:8). The law made many provisions for the poor. In the New Testament we read of several beggars who were also blind, who received blessing (Mark 10:46; Luke 18:35; John 9:8); and in the parable the Lord spoke of the beggar named Lazarus who was carried into Abraham’s bosom (Luke 16:20, 22; compare Acts 3:2).
Strong’s Dictionary of Greek Words:
Transliteration:
prosaiteo
Meaning:
from 4314 and 154; to ask repeatedly (importune), i.e. solicit