### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ekkrémamai**, represented by `{{G1582}}`, describes an intense form of listening. Derived from roots meaning "to hang upon," it is defined as to hang upon the lips of a speaker, i.e. listen closely. This specific term appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, making its single usage particularly significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G1582}}` is in [[Luke 19:48]], which describes the reaction of the crowds to Jesus's teaching. The verse states that his opponents "could not find what they might do: for all the people **were very attentive** to hear him" [[Luke 19:48]]. This context vividly portrays a crowd completely captivated, hanging on every word from Jesus. Their rapt attention effectively shielded him from those who sought to harm him, as they could find no opportunity to act.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Greek words from its context help to clarify the meaning of `{{G1582}}`:
* `{{G191}}` **akoúō**: This verb means **to hear**. It is the action the people were performing, which `{{G1582}}` describes in more detail. Its importance is highlighted in the command to be "swift to **hear**" [[James 1:19]].
* `{{G2992}}` **laós**: This word means **a people**. It identifies the group that was so attentive to Jesus's words [[Luke 19:48]]. This same word is used when God declares, "they shall be my **people**" [[2 Corinthians 6:16]].
* `{{G1063}}` **gár**: A particle used to assign a reason, translated as **for**. It critically links the leaders' inability to act to the people's attentiveness, explaining *why* they could not find a way to proceed [[Luke 19:48]]. It is often used to provide a reason, as in, "**For** God hath not given us the spirit of fear" [[2 Timothy 1:7]].
### Theological Significance
While rare, the theological weight of `{{G1582}}` is found in its powerful descriptive quality.
* **The Posture of Hearing:** The word illustrates the ideal posture for receiving God's word—not just passively hearing, but being so engaged that one "hangs on" to the message. This indicates a deep hunger for truth.
* **A Response to Divine Truth:** The intense focus of the **people** `{{G2992}}` demonstrates a heart-level reaction to the authority and substance of Jesus's teaching.
* **The Protective Power of Engagement:** In its biblical context, the crowd's attentiveness created a shield around Jesus. This suggests that a community captivated by truth can stand against opposition, as the leaders "could **not** `{{G3756}}` **find** `{{G2147}}` **what** `{{G5101}}` they might **do** `{{G4160}}`" [[Luke 19:48]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1582}}` provides a powerful and concise image of captivated listening. Though used only once, its appearance in [[Luke 19:48]] paints a clear picture of a crowd utterly absorbed by the words of Jesus. It serves as a definitive illustration of how one should listen to divine teaching—with an intensity that hangs on every word, reflecting a heart eager to hear and understand.
TRV