The Greek word epakoúō, represented by G1873, means to hearken (favorably) to:--hear. This term is derived from ἐπί and ἀκούω. Despite its specific meaning of attentive and favorable listening, it is used sparingly in scripture, appearing only 1 time across 1 unique verse. Its singular use highlights a pivotal moment of divine attentiveness.
The sole appearance of G1873 is found in a quotation from God in 2 Corinthians 6:2. The passage states, "I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee." Here, the word is not used for simple auditory perception but for a divine hearing that is receptive and leads to action. This context establishes that being "heard" by God in this manner is directly connected to receiving His help and salvation at an appointed time.
Several related words provide a fuller context for the concepts of divine communication and aid:
- G3004 légō (to "lay" forth... relate... say): This word is used for declarations and set discourse. It introduces the divine promise containing G1873, as God "saith" He has heard His people 2 Corinthians 6:2. It is also used when the Lord "saith" He will establish a new covenant Hebrews 8:10.
- G4991 sōtēría (rescue or safety): This term is explicitly linked to being heard favorably. The "day of salvation" is the period in which God provides succor after hearing the cry for help 2 Corinthians 6:2. Its importance is affirmed in passages stating there is salvation in no other name Acts 4:12.
- G997 boēthéō (to aid or relieve): This is the action that results from God's favorable hearing. In the same verse, God declares, "have I succoured thee" 2 Corinthians 6:2. This word also appears in pleas for divine intervention, such as the cry, "Lord, help me" Matthew 15:25.
The theological significance of G1873 is concentrated in its single usage, emphasizing God's direct and responsive nature.
- Favorable Divine Attention: The word shows that God does not merely listen but hearkens with favor. This act of being "heard" is presented as a foundational element of receiving God's grace in an "accepted time" 2 Corinthians 6:2.
- Promise of Timely Succor: The favorable hearing is immediately followed by a promise of aid. God's declaration that "I have succoured thee" demonstrates that His attention is inseparable from His willingness to help and relieve 2 Corinthians 6:2.
- Hearing and Salvation: The term inextricably links the act of being heard by God to the reality of salvation. The "day of salvation" is the context in which this favorable hearing occurs, showing that God's attentiveness is a key component of his saving work for believers 2 Corinthians 6:2.
In summary, while G1873 is a rare term, its meaning is powerful. It moves beyond the simple concept of hearing to describe a focused, favorable attention from God that results in direct aid. Its use in 2 Corinthians 6:2 encapsulates a core theological promise: that God hearkens to His people and responds with timely salvation and succor, making it a word of profound encouragement and assurance.
TRV