### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **qesheb**, represented by `{{H7182}}`, is derived from the root word `qâshab` `{{H7181}}` and signifies **a hearkening**. It appears only **4 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. Its meaning encompasses concepts of attentive listening, such as **hearing**, **much heed**, or being one **that regarded**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H7182}}` is used to convey the presence or absence of attentive response. In the account of Elijah and the prophets of Baal, their frantic cries receive no reply, with the text noting there was "neither voice, nor any to answer, nor any **that regarded**" [[1 Kings 18:29]]. Similarly, when Gehazi places Elisha's staff on the dead child, there is "neither voice, nor **hearing**" [[2 Kings 4:31]], indicating a total lack of life or response. In contrast, Isaiah describes a watchman who "hearkened **diligently** with much **heed**" [[Isaiah 21:7]], using the term twice to emphasize the intensity of the observation.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller context for the concept of hearing and responding:
* `{{H7181}}` **qâshab**: This is the primitive root meaning **to prick up the ears, i.e. hearken**. As the verb from which `{{H7182}}` is derived, it appears in commands to **hearken** to God [[2 Chronicles 20:15]] and is used to describe God himself hearkening to his people [[Malachi 3:16]].
* `{{H6963}}` **qôwl**: Meaning **a voice or sound**, this word appears alongside `{{H7182}}` in contexts of profound silence ([[1 Kings 18:29]], [[2 Kings 4:31]]). Obedience to God is frequently linked to hearkening to His **voice** [[Deuteronomy 28:1]].
* `{{H6030}}` **ʻânâh**: This word for **answer** or **respond** is paired with the lack of `{{H7182}}` on Mount Carmel to show that the idols offered no response [[1 Kings 18:29]]. This stands in sharp contrast to the LORD, who promises to **answer** those who call on Him [[Jeremiah 33:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7182}}` is demonstrated in its specific applications:
* **The Emptiness of Idolatry:** The use of `{{H7182}}` in [[1 Kings 18:29]] is a powerful statement on the nature of idols. The silence of Baal, marked by no voice, no answer, and no one **that regarded**, confirms the lifelessness of false gods.
* **A Sign of Life:** In [[2 Kings 4:31]], the absence of **hearing** is a definitive sign of death. This implies that a conscious, living being is one who can perceive and respond, making the ability to hear a fundamental indicator of life.
* **Focused Spiritual Attention:** Isaiah's use of `{{H7182}}` twice in the phrase "diligently with much heed" elevates the concept from simple listening to an act of intense, purposeful focus required for prophetic duty [[Isaiah 21:7]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7182}}` **qesheb** provides a specific and nuanced term for **hearkening**. Though rare, its usage is significant. It illustrates the profound difference between the living God who hears and answers, and the silent idols who cannot regard. Furthermore, it defines both the absence of life through a lack of **hearing** and the vital importance of diligent, focused attention.
TRV