קָשַׁב

קָשַׁב

to prick up the ears, i.e. hearken

Definition

The Hebrew verb קָשַׁב (qâshab) fundamentally means to listen attentively, to incline one's ear, or to give heed. It describes a focused, intentional act of hearing that goes beyond mere auditory reception to include a readiness to obey or respond. In some contexts, it carries the sense of paying close attention or marking something well, as in Nehemiah 9:34 where the people are accused of not 'hearkening' to God's law. In a more relational sense, it often describes God listening to human prayer, as in Psalm 5:2 ('Give ear to my words, O LORD'), implying a divine posture of care and responsiveness.

Biblical Usage

The word is used 45 times in the Old Testament, primarily in poetic and prophetic books like Psalms, Proverbs, and the Prophets, as well as in historical narratives. It frequently appears in calls to listen to God's instruction, warnings, or promises. For example, in 1 Samuel 15:22, Samuel tells Saul that 'to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams,' linking attentive listening with obedience. It is also used in prayers pleading for God's attention (Psalm 10:17) and in prophetic appeals for the people to pay heed to God's word (2 Chronicles 20:15).

Etymology

קָשַׁב is a primitive root. Its core meaning relates to sharpening or pricking up the ears, akin to an animal alertly focusing its hearing. This vivid imagery evolved into the broader concept of attentive listening. Cognates in other Semitic languages support this sense of acute attention or perception.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it captures the essence of the covenant relationship between God and humanity. True 'hearkening' (qâshab) is the proper human response to divine revelation, involving humility, obedience, and a turned heart. It contrasts with passive or disobedient hearing. Understanding qâshab enriches reading by highlighting that biblical listening is an active, engaged posture required both from people toward God and, graciously, from God toward his people's prayers. In an ancient oral culture, attentive listening was a critical skill for receiving wisdom, law, and tradition. The imagery of 'pricking up the ears' draws from pastoral life, picturing an animal's alertness to a shepherd's voice or potential danger. This conveys a level of readiness and focused expectation that modern, distraction-filled listening often lacks. שָׁמַע (shama`, H8085) — a broader term for hearing, often implying comprehension and obedience; הִקְשִׁיב (hiqshiv, H238) — a less common synonym, also meaning to listen attentively or incline the ear.

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