The word is an ancient and formal term that carries significantly more weight than a simple "request". It typically refers to an authoritative order or an urgent prompting. Understanding the Nuance
If "behest" feels too formal, you can use more direct English synonyms: What does 'at the behest of' mean? - Plain English behest
You will almost always see this word used in the construction "at the behest of" or "at someone's behest" . The word is an ancient and formal term
The word is nearly a thousand years old, originating from Old English hātan (to command or promise). It formerly meant "promise," as seen in the obsolete phrase "the land of behest". Common Synonyms behest