### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **akroatḗs**, represented by `{{G202}}`, defines a **hearer**, particularly one who listens without taking action. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible. The term is consistently used to highlight the critical difference between passively receiving information and actively applying it, establishing a theme of obedient action over mere listening.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G202}}` is always presented in direct contrast to being a "doer." The book of James uses it to warn against self-deception, stating, "be ye doers of the word, and not **hearers** only" [[James 1:22]]. A **hearer** who fails to act is compared to a person who looks at his own face in a mirror and immediately forgets what he saw [[James 1:23]]. Similarly, Paul uses the term in his letter to the Romans, explaining that it is not the **hearers** of the law who are considered just before God, but the "doers of the law" who will be justified [[Romans 2:13]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the role and consequences of being a mere **hearer**:
* `{{G4163}}` **poiētḗs** (a performer; specially, a "poet"; --doer, poet): This is the direct counterpart to **akroatḗs**. It emphasizes active performance and is used to describe the one who is justified before God [[Romans 2:13]] and blessed in his actions [[James 1:25]].
* `{{G3056}}` **lógos** (something said... word, work): This is what is being heard. Believers are instructed to be doers of the **word**, not just **hearers**, underscoring that the divine message requires a tangible response [[James 1:22]].
* `{{G3551}}` **nómos** (law): Both Paul and James apply the hearer/doer distinction to the **law**. One must be a doer of the **law** [[Romans 2:13]], and the one who looks into the "perfect **law** of liberty" and acts on it is blessed [[James 1:25]].
* `{{G1953}}` **epilēsmonḗ** (negligence:--X forgetful): This word directly qualifies **akroatḗs** in [[James 1:25]], which warns against being a "forgetful **hearer**." It links the passivity of hearing with negligence and the failure to retain God's truth.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G202}}` is significant, serving as a caution against superficial faith.
* **Action vs. Passivity:** The primary point is the biblical demand for a faith that acts. Being a **hearer** only is described as a form of self-delusion `{{G3884}}`, where one believes they are right with God simply because they have heard the truth [[James 1:22]].
* **The Evidence of Justification:** The concept of a **hearer** is tied to justification. [[Romans 2:13]] makes it clear that hearing the law is insufficient for righteousness; rather, it is the "doers of the law" who "shall be justified" `{{G1344}}`.
* **The Blessing of Obedience:** True blessing is reserved not for the **hearer**, but for the doer. The one who looks into the law and is not a "forgetful **hearer** `{{G202}}` but a doer of the work" is promised blessing in his "deed" `{{G4162}}`, or performance of the law [[James 1:25]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G202}}` is far more than a simple descriptor for one who listens. It functions as a foundational New Testament warning against spiritual inaction. By consistently placing the "hearer" in opposition to the "doer," scripture illustrates that genuine faith is not passive or intellectual but is proven through obedience. The term powerfully communicates that the truths of God's word and law are meant to be lived out, not merely heard.
TRV