a primitive root; probably to expand; but used only as a denominative from אֹזֶן; to broaden out the ear (with the hand), i.e. (by implication) to listen; give (perceive by the) ear, hear(-ken). See אָזַן.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼâzan**, represented by `{{H238}}`, is a verb that means to **give ear** or to **listen** intently. It appears **41 times** in **41 unique verses** of the Bible. The term is derived from the word for "ear" and implies a deliberate action of broadening out the ear to perceive a sound, suggesting an active and focused form of hearkening rather than passive hearing.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{H238}}` is frequently employed as an urgent command or a heartfelt plea. Prophets and leaders call upon the people, and even the heavens and earth, to **give ear** to the word of the LORD ([[Isaiah 1:2]], [[Deuteronomy 32:1]]). This command is directed at all levels of society, from priests and kings to the general populace ([[Hosea 5:1]], [[Judges 5:3]]). Conversely, the psalmists often plead for God to **give ear** to their prayers and supplications ([[Psalms 55:1]], [[Psalms 143:1]]). The refusal to **give ear** is presented as a sign of rebellion, as when Israel would not heed the prophets sent by God ([[Nehemiah 9:30]], [[2 Chronicles 24:19]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller context for the act of listening and what is being heard:
* `{{H8085}}` **shâmaʻ** (to hear intelligently): This word is often used in parallel with **ʼâzan**, signifying not just hearing a sound but understanding and obeying it. It is used to command people to **hear** God's law [[Deuteronomy 32:1]] and to describe God hearing prayer [[Psalms 39:12]].
* `{{H7181}}` **qâshab** (to prick up the ears, i.e. hearken): This term also implies attentive listening and is used alongside **ʼâzan** to emphasize the need to **attend** unto a cry or prayer [[Psalms 17:1]].
* `{{H6963}}` **qôwl** (a voice or sound): This is often the object that one is called to **give ear** to, whether it is the **voice** of God [[Exodus 15:26]] or the **voice** of a person's supplications [[Psalms 140:6]].
* `{{H8605}}` **tᵉphillâh** (prayer): The plea to **give ear** is frequently directed at God in the context of **prayer**. David asks God to **give ear** unto his **prayer** [[Psalms 17:1]] and his cry [[Psalms 39:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H238}}` is profound, framing the covenantal dialogue between God and humanity.
* **The Call to Obedience:** To **give ear** to God's commandments is a prerequisite for receiving His blessings and protection. God's promise of healing is conditioned on Israel's willingness to **give ear** to His statutes [[Exodus 15:26]].
* **The Nature of Divine Attention:** The act of God giving ear demonstrates His personal and compassionate nature. He is a God who listens to the **supplications** [[Psalms 140:6]] and **cry** of His people [[Psalms 39:12]], as seen when He **gave ear** to the psalmist [[Psalms 77:1]].
* **Human Rebellion:** The refusal to **give ear** is a consistent theme describing Israel's disobedience. Despite God sending prophets to testify against them, the people "would not **give ear**" [[Nehemiah 9:30]], highlighting their willful rejection of God's guidance.
* **Cosmic Witness:** The call for the heavens and earth to **give ear** ([[Isaiah 1:2]], [[Deuteronomy 32:1]]) elevates the importance of the spoken word, treating all of creation as a witness to God's proclamations and covenants.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H238}}` conveys much more than simple hearing. It represents a focused, intentional act of listening that is central to the biblical understanding of faith, obedience, and relationship with God. Whether it is a command for humanity to hearken to God's law or a plea for God to hearken to the prayers of the faithful, **ʼâzan** underscores that the entire covenant relationship depends on a willingness to truly **give ear**.
TRV