from ἐπί and the base of ἀκροατής; to listen (intently) to:--hear.
Transliteration:epakroáomai
Pronunciation:ep-ak-ro-ah'-om-ahee
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word epakroáomai (`{{G1874}}`) is a compound verb derived from the preposition epí (`{{G1909}}`, meaning "upon," "to," or intensifying) and the base of akroátēs (`{{G202}}`, "a hearer" or "listener"). The core meaning therefore denotes a focused and intentional act of hearing, going beyond mere auditory perception. It implies a deliberate attentiveness, a leaning in to listen, often with a view to understanding or evaluating what is being heard. Unlike the more general verb akoúō (`{{G191}}`, "to hear"), epakroáomai suggests a concentrated, perhaps even critical or discerning, reception of sound or message. It is not passive hearing, but an active engagement with the auditory input.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term epakroáomai (`{{G1874}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, in the book of Acts:
* [[Acts 16:25]]: "About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them intently."
In this solitary occurrence, the context is highly significant. Paul and Silas, unjustly imprisoned in Philippi, are engaged in fervent worship. The word epakroáomai describes the posture of the other prisoners: they were not merely hearing the sounds of prayer and song, but were "listening to them intently" or "attentively." This implies a deep engagement with the worship, suggesting that the prisoners were captivated by the spiritual depth or unusual nature of what they were witnessing. Their attentive listening serves as a prelude to the miraculous earthquake and the subsequent conversion of the jailer and his household. The intentionality of their hearing underscores the impact of Paul and Silas's worship, which transcended the physical barriers of the prison and touched the hearts of their fellow inmates.
### Related Words & Concepts
* akoúō (`{{G191}}`): This is the most common Greek verb for "to hear" and serves as the general term. epakroáomai is a more specific and intensified form, highlighting the *manner* of hearing (attentively, intently).
* akroátēs (`{{G202}}`): "a hearer," "one who listens." This noun is directly related to the base of epakroáomai. It is often used in a context that distinguishes between merely hearing and actively doing (e.g., [[James 1:23]], [[James 1:25]] - "hearers of the word, and not doers only").
* hypakoúō (`{{G5219}}`): "to listen under," implying obedience or submission. While epakroáomai focuses on the act of attentive listening, hypakoúō emphasizes the responsive action that follows hearing.
* Concepts of attentiveness, spiritual receptivity, and discernment are closely associated. The word points to a state where the mind and spirit are open and receptive to what is being communicated, rather than just registering noise.
### Theological Significance
The singular use of epakroáomai (`{{G1874}}`) in [[Acts 16:25]] carries profound theological weight. It highlights that God can use the simple, yet fervent, acts of worship and prayer by His servants to capture the attention of those who are spiritually bound or unreached. The "intense listening" of the prisoners suggests a divine preparation of hearts, making them receptive to the subsequent manifestation of God's power. It underscores the principle that true spiritual hearing is not passive but active and intentional.
This attentive listening can be seen as a necessary precursor to spiritual awakening and conversion. The prisoners' focused attention on Paul and Silas's worship created an atmosphere where God could work, leading to the earthquake that opened the prison doors—both literally and spiritually for the jailer and his household. It emphasizes the power of testimony and worship to penetrate even the most hardened or confined environments, drawing listeners into an encounter with the divine. Theologically, it reminds believers of the importance of living out their faith authentically, as even seemingly private acts of devotion can be observed and profoundly impact those who are "listening intently."
### Summary
Epakroáomai (`{{G1874}}`) is a rare but significant Greek verb meaning "to listen intently," "to listen attentively," or "to pay close attention to." Derived from epí (intensive) and the root of akroátēs (hearer), it signifies a deliberate and focused act of hearing, distinct from general auditory perception (akoúō `{{G191}}`). Its sole New Testament occurrence in [[Acts 16:25]] powerfully illustrates its meaning: the prisoners' "intense listening" to Paul and Silas's worship highlights the profound impact of authentic faith and serves as a prelude to divine intervention and spiritual transformation. The word underscores the importance of intentional receptivity in the spiritual realm, demonstrating how attentive hearing can prepare hearts for God's work.
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