The noun ἱκετηρία originally designated the olive branch or wreath that Greek suppliants carried as a symbol of their petition, but came to mean the supplication itself—earnest prayer or entreaty. Classical sources describe suppliants holding these branches when approaching gods or authorities. Hebrews 5:7 uses it for Jesus's prayers in the days of his flesh, when "with loud cries and tears he offered up prayers and supplications" to God. The plural emphasizes the intensity and earnestness of his petitions, likely referring to Gethsemane. Translations vary: "supplications" (English), "ruegos" (Spanish), "Flehen" (German), all capturing earnest, humble petition.