The Greek word eisakoúō, represented by G1522, means to listen to or hear. It is formed from the words εἰς (eis) and ἀκούω (akoúō). Appearing 6 times across 5 unique verses in scripture, its usage is specific and significant, often denoting a direct response to a prayer or supplication.
In the biblical narrative, G1522 is used to confirm that a prayer has been acknowledged by God. An angel tells Zacharias, "thy prayer is heard" Luke 1:13, and similarly informs Cornelius, "thy prayer is heard" Acts 10:31. The word describes the successful intercession of Christ, who "was heard in that he feared" after offering up prayers and supplications Hebrews 5:7. Conversely, it is used in a cautionary sense, warning believers not to assume they will be heard for their "much speaking" Matthew 6:7. It also appears where God states that a people will not hear him, highlighting a refusal to listen 1 Corinthians 14:21.
Several related words clarify the context of being heard, particularly in relation to prayer:
- G1162 déēsis (a petition:--prayer, request, supplication): This word for petition is directly linked to being heard, as when the angel confirms to Zacharias that his prayer has been answered Luke 1:13.
- G4335 proseuchḗ (prayer (worship)): This term for prayer as an act of worship is also confirmed as being heard by God, as seen in the case of Cornelius Acts 10:31.
- G4336 proseúchomai (to pray to God, i.e. supplicate, worship): The verb for praying is used in the context of how one should pray, contrasting effective prayer with the "vain repetitions" of those who think they will be heard for their many words Matthew 6:7.
The theological weight of G1522 centers on the nature of divine communication.
- God's Responsiveness: The word affirms that God is attentive to the prayers of the righteous. This is explicitly stated in the angelic messages to Zacharias and Cornelius, confirming that their prayers have been received and remembered by God (Luke 1:13, Acts 10:31).
- The Efficacy of Christ's Prayer: Its use in Hebrews 5:7 is profound, showing that even Christ in his humanity "offered up prayers and supplications" and "was heard." This underscores the reality of his suffering and his perfect relationship with the Father.
- The Conditions for Being Heard: The term is used to teach that being heard by God is not automatic. It is contrasted with the empty practice of "much speaking" Matthew 6:7 and is linked to reverence, as Christ "was heard in that he feared" Hebrews 5:7.
In summary, G1522 provides a specific focus on the concept of being heard, especially by God. While it appears infrequently, its usage is powerful, marking pivotal moments where prayers are answered for figures like Zacharias and Cornelius. It serves not only to affirm God's attentiveness but also to define the conditions for effective prayer, as exemplified by Christ's own supplications and contrasted with meaningless repetition. The word illustrates the crucial difference between merely speaking and being truly listened to by God.
TRV