ἐνωτίζομαι

I take into my ear, listen to

Definition

ἐνωτίζομαι is a verb meaning 'to give ear,' 'to listen attentively,' or 'to take into one's ear.' It conveys the idea of actively and intentionally receiving spoken words, implying a readiness to heed or obey what is heard. In its sole New Testament occurrence in Acts 2:14, Peter uses it to command the crowd's attention before his Pentecost sermon. While the word itself does not have multiple distinct biblical senses due to its single use, its force is one of urgent, focused listening, often in a context of important proclamation.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in Acts 2:14. Here, the apostle Peter, standing with the other eleven apostles, raises his voice and declares, 'ἀκούσατε τοὺς λόγους μου καὶ ἐνωτίσασθε' ('Hear my words and give ear'). It is used in a public, evangelistic context to command the attention of a diverse, questioning crowd (Acts 2:5-13) before delivering a foundational gospel message explaining the events of Pentecost.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek noun οὖς (ous, G3775), meaning 'ear.' The verb is formed with the ἐν (en, 'in') prefix, creating a vivid picture of 'putting something into the ear' or 'giving ear to.' It is a more graphic and forceful synonym for the more common verb ἀκούω (akouō, G191), which means 'to hear.'

Semantic Range

Though used only once, this word is theologically significant as it marks the moment the apostolic proclamation of the gospel to all nations formally begins at Pentecost. Peter's command for the crowd to 'give ear' underscores the necessity of attentive listening to God's revealed message. Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by highlighting that receiving the gospel is not a passive hearing but an active, intentional engagement with the word of God, which is the power for salvation (Romans 1:16).

In the ancient Greco-Roman world, public oratory was a primary means of communication and persuasion. A command to 'give ear' was a formal rhetorical device used by speakers to secure the audience's full attention before a weighty announcement or argument. Peter's use of this term aligns with this convention, signaling the supreme importance of the message to follow—the explanation of Christ's resurrection and exaltation.

ἀκούω (akouō, G191) — a broader term for hearing or perceiving sound; ἐνωτίζομαι implies a more focused, intentional listening. προσέχω (prosechō, G4337) — to pay attention or give heed, often with the mind or will, not exclusively through the ear.

Word Details

Scripture References