### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼâzan**, represented by `{{H239}}`, is a primitive root that means to weigh, ponder, or **give good heed**. Its definition suggests the idea of scales, as if balancing two ears. It appears only **1 time** in the Bible, highlighting a specific and deliberate intellectual action.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{H239}}` is found in Ecclesiastes, where it describes the meticulous work of the Preacher. The verse states that because the Preacher `{{H6953}}` was wise `{{H2450}}`, he taught the people knowledge `{{H1847}}` and in doing so, he "gave good heed{H239}, and sought out{H2713}, and set in order{H8626} many{H7235} proverbs{H4912}" [[Ecclesiastes 12:9]]. This context shows that **ʼâzan** is not a passive act of listening, but an active process of careful consideration and evaluation.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in its only appearance clarify the comprehensive nature of this thoughtful process:
* `{{H2713}}` **châqar** (to examine intimately): Used in conjunction with `{{H239}}`, it describes the deep investigation that follows the act of weighing and pondering. The Preacher "sought out" the proverbs, indicating a thorough search [[Ecclesiastes 12:9]].
* `{{H8626}}` **tâqan** (to compose): After giving heed and searching out, the Preacher "set in order" the proverbs. This term signifies the careful arrangement and composition of wisdom once it has been properly weighed [[Ecclesiastes 12:9]].
* `{{H2450}}` **châkâm** (wise): The Preacher's ability to perform these actions stems from the fact that he "was wise." This quality is the foundation for the entire process of pondering, searching, and organizing knowledge [[Ecclesiastes 12:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H239}}` is tied to the responsible handling of wisdom.
* **The Diligence of Wisdom:** The term emphasizes that acquiring and preparing wisdom for others is an arduous task. It involves more than mere collection; it requires a deep, figurative weighing of concepts, as demonstrated by the Preacher's efforts [[Ecclesiastes 12:9]].
* **The Foundation of Teaching:** To effectively teach `{{H3925}}` the people `{{H5971}}` knowledge `{{H1847}}`, one must first give good heed to the material. The process described in [[Ecclesiastes 12:9]] serves as a model for responsible instruction.
* **The Value of Proverbs:** The act of pondering, searching, and ordering is applied to "many proverbs" `{{H4912}}`. This shows the value placed on these pithy maxims as vessels of truth that require careful evaluation before being passed on.
### Summary
In summary, although `{{H239}}` is used only once, its meaning is significant. As **ʼâzan**, it defines a critical step in the stewardship of wisdom: the act of weighing and giving good heed. Its placement in [[Ecclesiastes 12:9]] frames it as an essential part of a wise person's process to search, organize, and ultimately teach knowledge with integrity and care.
TRV