from ἐπί and ἀκούω; to hearken (favorably) to:--hear.
Transliteration:epakoúō
Pronunciation:ep-ak-oo'-o
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb `{{G1873}}` (epakoúō) is a compound word formed from the preposition ἐπί (epi), meaning "upon," "to," or "in addition," and the verb ἀκούω (akouō, `{{G191}}`), meaning "to hear" or "to listen." This combination suggests a directed, attentive, and often favorable hearing, moving beyond mere perception of sound to an active, responsive engagement. The prefix ἐπί intensifies the action of hearing, implying a hearing *unto* something, often with the intent to respond or grant. Thus, its semantic range includes "to hear favorably," "to hearken to," "to grant a request," or "to answer prayer." It denotes a hearing that leads to a positive outcome or action on the part of the listener.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb `{{G1873}}` (epakoúō) appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in [[2 Corinthians 6:2]]. Here, Paul quotes from the Septuagint (LXX) version of [[Isaiah 49:8]]: "For he says, 'In a favorable time I listened to you, and in a day of salvation I helped you.' Behold, now is the favorable time; behold, now is the day of salvation."
In this context, epakoúō translates the Hebrew verb `{{H6030}}` (anah), which carries a broad range of meanings including "to answer," "to respond," "to attend to," or "to afflict." The choice of epakoúō in the LXX and subsequently in Paul's quotation emphasizes God's attentive and favorable response to His servant (Israel/Christ) in a time of need. The divine "hearing" is not passive but leads directly to "helping" (βοηθέω - boētheō). Paul applies this ancient prophecy to the present reality of the New Covenant, declaring that the eschatological "favorable time" (καιρῷ δεκτῷ - kairō dektō) and "day of salvation" (ἡμέρᾳ σωτηρίας - hēmera sōtērias) have arrived in Christ, making God's saving power immediately accessible. The use of epakoúō underscores the certainty and efficacy of God's divine promise and action in the present moment.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several Greek words share semantic overlap or conceptual connections with `{{G1873}}` (epakoúō):
* ἀκούω (akouō, `{{G191}}`): The foundational verb for "to hear." epakoúō is a more specialized and intensified form, adding the nuance of favorable or responsive hearing.
* εἰσακούω (eisakouō, `{{G1522}}`): Another compound verb meaning "to hear and answer," particularly prayer. The prefix εἰς (eis - into) suggests a hearing that penetrates or results in action. In many contexts, epakoúō and eisakouō are used almost synonymously, both conveying the idea of God hearing and granting a request.
* ὑπακούω (hypakouō, `{{G5219}}`): Meaning "to hear under" or "to obey." While epakoúō focuses on the divine act of hearing and responding, hypakouō emphasizes the human response of obedience to what is heard.
* προσέχω (prosechō, `{{G4337}}`): "To pay attention," "to give heed." This describes the active, focused listening that is a prerequisite for the favorable hearing implied by epakoúō, whether from a divine or human perspective.
* Concepts: Divine attentiveness, responsive prayer, divine favor, covenant faithfulness, and salvation are all intimately connected to the meaning of epakoúō.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G1873}}` (epakoúō) primarily centers on the character of God and His interaction with humanity. It portrays God as an attentive and responsive deity, one who does not merely perceive sounds but actively "hearkens" to the cries and needs of His people. This favorable hearing is intrinsically linked to divine action, particularly salvation and deliverance.
In [[2 Corinthians 6:2]], God's "listening" (epakoúō) is directly paired with His "helping" (boētheō). This demonstrates that God's hearing is not passive but efficacious; it leads to intervention and aid. The passage, rooted in the prophetic promise of [[Isaiah 49:8]], underscores God's covenant faithfulness and His unwavering commitment to His people. The "favorable time" and "day of salvation" are presented as a present reality in the New Testament era, signifying that God's promised intervention and saving grace are available *now*. This offers profound assurance to believers that their prayers are heard and that God is actively engaged in bringing about His redemptive purposes. The word thus encapsulates God's benevolent disposition, His readiness to answer, and His ultimate power to save.
### Summary
The Greek verb `{{G1873}}` (epakoúō) signifies a hearing that is attentive, favorable, and responsive, particularly in the context of God's interaction with humanity. Derived from ἐπί (upon) and ἀκούω (to hear), it conveys more than mere auditory perception; it implies a hearing that leads to a positive outcome or action. Its singular New Testament occurrence in [[2 Corinthians 6:2]], a quotation from [[Isaiah 49:8]] LXX, powerfully illustrates God's active engagement and readiness to save. In this passage, God's "listening" is directly linked to His "helping," affirming His covenant faithfulness and the present availability of His saving grace. Thus, epakoúō encapsulates the theological truth of a God who hears His people's cries and responds with benevolent action, particularly in the context of salvation.
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