middle voice from διά and ἀκούω; to hear throughout, i.e. patiently listen (to a prisoner's plea):--hear.
Transliteration:diakoúomai
Pronunciation:dee-ak-oo'-om-ahee
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb διακούομαι (diakoúomai `{{G1251}}`) is a compound word derived from the preposition διά (dia), meaning "through" or "thoroughly," and the verb ἀκούω (akouō `{{G191}}`), meaning "to hear." The use of the middle voice in διακούομαι suggests an action performed with particular interest or for one's own benefit, often implying a careful and attentive engagement with the hearing process. Therefore, the core meaning of διακούομαι is "to hear throughout" or "to hear fully." This implies a comprehensive and patient listening, especially in a formal or judicial setting, where all aspects of a case or plea are to be considered. It moves beyond a mere auditory perception to a deliberate and exhaustive reception of information, indicative of due process.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term διακούομαι (diakoúomai `{{G1251}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in the book of Acts:
* **[[Acts 23:35]]**: "he said, 'I will hear you fully when your accusers also arrive.' And he ordered him to be kept in Herod's praetorium."
* In this sole occurrence, Governor Felix uses διακούομαι in response to Paul's appearance before him. Paul, having been accused by the Jews, is awaiting a formal hearing. Felix's statement, "I will hear you fully" (διακούσομαί σου), signifies his intention to conduct a thorough and complete investigation of the charges against Paul, but only after Paul's accusers are present to present their case. This context firmly establishes the word's judicial connotation, emphasizing a formal, official, and comprehensive hearing process, rather than a casual or partial listening. It underscores the expectation of a full presentation of evidence and testimony before a judgment is rendered.
### Related Words & Concepts
Given its unique composition and singular occurrence, διακούομαι (diakoúomai `{{G1251}}`) is closely related to several key concepts and words:
* **ἀκούω (akouō `{{G191}}`):** As the base verb, ἀκούω simply means "to hear" or "to listen." διακούομαι intensifies this, adding the nuance of thoroughness and completeness, particularly in a formal context.
* **κρίνω (krinō `{{G2919}}`):** "To judge" or "to decide." A thorough hearing (διακούομαι) is often a prerequisite for a just judgment (κρίνω). The judicial process depicted in Acts requires a full hearing before a verdict can be reached.
* **ἀπολογέομαι (apologeomai `{{G626}}`):** "To make a defense" or "to speak in defense." Paul, as the accused, would be expected to ἀπολογέομαι, and Felix, by using διακούομαι, commits to hearing that defense fully.
* **δίκη (dikē `{{G1349}}`):** "Justice" or "right." The concept of διακούομαι aligns with the principle of justice, ensuring that all parties are heard before a decision is made.
* **Due Process:** The term embodies the ancient concept of fair judicial procedure, where the accused has the right to present their case and have it fully considered.
### Theological Significance
Though διακούομαι (diakoúomai `{{G1251}}`) appears only once, its presence in a pivotal judicial setting offers subtle but profound theological insights.
* **Divine Justice and Fairness:** The demand for a "full hearing" by a human governor, even if imperfectly executed in Felix's case (who later procrastinated, [[Acts 24:22-27]]), reflects an inherent human understanding of justice that resonates with divine attributes. God's justice is never partial or superficial; He "hears throughout" in the most ultimate sense, understanding all motives, actions, and circumstances before righteous judgment. This word, therefore, subtly points to the ideal of a just and thorough inquiry, a characteristic that defines God's own dealings with humanity.
* **The Importance of Witness and Testimony:** The necessity of hearing both the accused and the accusers fully underscores the biblical emphasis on the importance of testimony and witness in establishing truth. God, in His dealings with humanity, calls for witnesses and provides ample opportunity for response, as seen in the prophetic appeals and the Gospel message itself.
* **Patience in Judgment:** The very act of "hearing throughout" implies patience. God's patience with humanity, allowing time for repentance and for the full unfolding of His redemptive plan, mirrors this concept. He does not rush to judgment but allows all things to come to light in His perfect timing.
### Summary
διακούομαι (diakoúomai `{{G1251}}`) is a unique and potent Greek verb, meaning "to hear throughout" or "to hear fully," signifying a comprehensive and patient listening, particularly within a judicial context. Its singular occurrence in [[Acts 23:35]] highlights Governor Felix's commitment to conducting a thorough investigation of Paul's case, awaiting the arrival of all accusers before rendering a decision. This word underscores the ancient and biblical principle of due process and fair hearing, where all testimony is carefully considered. Theologically, it resonates with the divine attribute of perfect justice, where God, in His infinite wisdom and patience, fully comprehends all matters before His righteous judgment, serving as an ideal for human judicial proceedings.
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