### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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