a primary verb; to hear (in various senses):--give (in the) audience (of), come (to the ears), (shall) hear(-er, -ken), be noised, be reported, understand.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **akoúō**, represented by `{{G191}}`, is a primary verb meaning **to hear**. It appears **454 times** across **402 unique verses** in the Bible, indicating its foundational role. Its definition encompasses a range of senses beyond simple auditory perception, including to give audience, to be reported, and to understand.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In Scripture, `{{G191}}` is used in several critical contexts. It frequently serves as a divine command, as seen in the recurring call for spiritual attentiveness: "He that hath an ear, let him **hear** what the Spirit saith" [[Revelation 2:7]]. The term establishes a vital link between hearing God's word and acting upon it, as illustrated by the wise man who **heareth** sayings and "doeth them" [[Matthew 7:24]]. Scripture also draws a sharp distinction between the physical act of hearing and true spiritual comprehension, warning of those who "hearing they may **hear**, and not understand" [[Mark 4:12]]. God is also depicted as the one who **heareth**, responding to those who pray according to His will [[1 John 5:14]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify and expand upon the concept of hearing:
* `{{G189}}` **akoḗ** (hearing): Derived directly from `akoúō`, this noun refers to the act, sense, or thing heard. It is used to emphasize the nature of hearing itself, as in the prophecy, "By **hearing** ye shall hear, and shall not understand" [[Matthew 13:14]].
* `{{G4920}}` **syníēmi** (comprehend): This verb means to put together mentally or to comprehend. It is often paired with `akoúō` to distinguish between simple perception and true understanding, as with the one who "heareth the word, and **understandeth** it" [[Matthew 13:23]].
* `{{G5456}}` **phōnḗ** (voice): This word denotes the sound or address that is heard. It is the object of hearing in many key passages, such as "My sheep **hear** my **voice**" [[John 10:27]].
* `{{G3056}}` **lógos** (word): This term for something said is frequently what must be heard for salvation and blessing. It is central to passages like, "blessed are they that **hear** the **word** of God, and keep it" [[Luke 11:28]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G191}}` is significant, establishing the foundation for a believer's relationship with God.
* **The Condition for Faith:** Hearing is presented as the essential prerequisite for belief. Without a preacher, people cannot **hear**, and without hearing, they cannot believe or call on the Lord [[Romans 10:14]].
* **A Call to Obedience:** True hearing is inseparable from action. The concept is central to discipleship, where blessing is tied not just to hearing the word but also to keeping it [[Luke 11:28]]. To **hear** without doing is to build one's house on sand [[Matthew 7:24]].
* **Spiritual Discernment:** Scripture consistently warns against a dullness of hearing, where people physically perceive words but their hearts are hardened against the truth [[Matthew 13:15]]. Thus, to truly **hear** is an act of a spiritually receptive heart.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G191}}` is far more than a word for a physical sense. It is a cornerstone of biblical communication, representing the divine call and the required human response. It defines the starting point for faith, the measure of obedience, and the difference between superficial reception and life-changing understanding. The term illustrates that true hearing is a spiritual act of the heart that leads to comprehension, belief, and eternal life.
TRV