εἰσακούω

I hear, listen to

Definition

The verb εἰσακούω means to hear with the intention of responding or granting a request. It goes beyond simple auditory perception to imply a favorable hearing that leads to action. In the New Testament, it is used primarily in contexts of prayer, where it signifies God hearing and answering petitions, as when God hears the prayers of Cornelius (Acts 10:31) and Jesus's supplications (Hebrews 5:7). In a different sense, it can also mean to listen or give heed, as seen in 1 Corinthians 14:21, where it quotes the Old Testament about people not listening to God's message.

Biblical Usage

This verb is used five times in the New Testament, predominantly in contexts of divine response to prayer. It appears in Luke 1:13 (God hears Zechariah's prayer), Acts 10:31, and Hebrews 5:7. It also appears in Jesus's teaching against meaningless repetition in prayer (Matthew 6:7). The final usage is a quotation from Isaiah in 1 Corinthians 14:21, applying the concept to a refusal to listen to God's prophetic word.

Etymology

Eἰσακούω is a compound verb formed from the preposition εἰς (eis, meaning 'into' or 'toward') and the common verb ἀκούω (akouō, meaning 'to hear'). The prefix εἰς intensifies the meaning, suggesting hearing that penetrates or enters in, resulting in a response. It carries the sense of hearing favorably or granting a hearing.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it highlights the biblical concept of a God who actively listens and responds to His people. It underscores the efficacy of prayer, portraying God not as a distant deity but as one who 'hears into' human supplication and acts. Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by clarifying that biblical 'hearing' often implies a relational, responsive action, especially in prayer contexts.

In the Greco-Roman world, the idea of deities hearing prayers was common, but the biblical use of εἰσακούω uniquely ties it to the personal, covenant relationship between Yahweh and His people. The expectation was not just that a god might hear, but that the one true God would hear and act faithfully according to His promises.

ἀκούω (akouō, G191) — The root verb, meaning simply to hear or perceive sound. Εἰσακούω adds the nuance of a favorable, responsive hearing. ἐπακούω (epakouō, G1873) — Also means to hear favorably or hearken, used in similar prayer contexts (e.g., 2 Corinthians 6:2).

Word Details

Scripture References