### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word qashshâb (קַשָּׁב, `{{H7183}}`) is an adjective derived from the verbal root qashav (קָשַׁב, `{{H7181}}`). The root qashav fundamentally means "to listen attentively," "to pay heed," "to give ear," or "to incline the ear." The adjectival form qashshâb therefore describes one who is characterized by such attentive listening; that is, "hearkening" or "attentive." The doubling of the middle radical (q-sh-sh-b) often indicates an intensified or habitual state, suggesting a persistent and focused disposition of active attention rather than a fleeting act of hearing. It implies a readiness to receive, process, and respond to what is heard.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
It is important to note that the specific adjectival form qashshâb (קַשָּׁב, `{{H7183}}`) does not appear in the Masoretic Text of the Hebrew Bible. However, its foundational verbal root qashav (קָשַׁב, `{{H7181}}`) is frequently attested and carries the full weight of the concept of attentive listening. The absence of the adjective qashshâb itself does not diminish the importance of the underlying concept.
Examples of the root qashav (`{{H7181}}`) in various verbal forms illustrate its use:
* **Divine Attentiveness:** God is often implored to qashav to the prayers and cries of His people, demonstrating His readiness to hear and respond. For instance, in [[Psalm 10:17]], "LORD, thou hast heard the desire of the humble: thou wilt prepare their heart, thou wilt cause thine ear to hear (הִקְשִׁיב)." Similarly, in [[Daniel 9:19]], Daniel pleads, "O Lord, hear; O Lord, forgive; O Lord, hearken (הַקְשִׁיבָה) and do; defer not, for thine own sake, O my God: for thy city and thy people are called by thy name."
* **Human Attentiveness:** Humans are called to qashav to God's commandments and instruction. [[Nehemiah 9:34]] laments, "Neither have our kings, our princes, our priests, nor our fathers, kept thy law, nor hearkened (הִקְשִׁיבוּ) unto thy commandments and thy testimonies, wherewith thou didst testify against them." This verse highlights the failure to pay attention as a key aspect of Israel's historical disobedience. In [[Isaiah 32:3]], a future state of spiritual clarity is described: "And the eyes of them that see shall not be dim, and the ears of them that hear shall hearken (תִּקְשַׁבְנָה)."
These occurrences of the root qashav demonstrate that the concept of "attentiveness" is a critical component of both divine-human interaction and human responsibility towards God's word.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the verbal root qashav (קָשַׁב, `{{H7181}}`), from which qashshâb is directly derived. This root emphasizes the active and intentional nature of listening, often implying a readiness to obey.
Other Hebrew words that relate to hearing and understanding include:
* shama (שָׁמַע, `{{H8085}}`): This is the most common Hebrew word for "to hear." While shama can also imply obedience ("hear and obey," as in the *Shema*), qashav often denotes a more focused, deliberate, and intentional paying of attention, a "giving of the ear," whereas shama can be more passive reception of sound.
* 'azan (אָזַן, `{{H238}}`): Literally meaning "to give ear" or "to listen," this verb is often used in poetic and wisdom contexts and is conceptually close to qashav, emphasizing the act of inclining one's ear.
* bin (בִּין, `{{H995}}`): "To understand," "to perceive," or "to discern." While hearing is a prerequisite, bin moves beyond mere auditory reception to comprehension and insight. An attentive person (qashshâb in concept) is better positioned to bin.
The concept of "attentiveness" is paramount in biblical wisdom literature, where the wise are distinguished by their readiness to listen to instruction, and the foolish by their inattention and resistance to counsel. Prophetic messages frequently call for the people to "hearken" to God's word, indicating that their failure to do so leads to spiritual blindness and judgment.
### Theological Significance
Although the specific adjectival form qashshâb is not found in the Hebrew Bible, the theological significance of its root qashav and the underlying concept of attentiveness is profound and pervasive.
* **Divine Compassion and Engagement:** God is portrayed as one who qashav to the prayers and cries of His people. This demonstrates His profound compassion, His active engagement in human affairs, and His covenant faithfulness. It reassures believers that God is not distant but intimately involved and responsive to their needs and pleas.
* **Human Responsibility and Obedience:** For humanity, "hearkening" or "being attentive" to God's voice and commandments is a fundamental aspect of a righteous relationship with Him. It signifies a posture of the heart that is receptive, humble, and ready to obey divine instruction. The biblical narrative frequently highlights Israel's failure to qashav as a root cause of their rebellion and suffering, underscoring that true faith is inherently linked to active, obedient listening.
* **Spiritual Receptivity:** The concept emphasizes the critical importance of spiritual receptivity. It is not enough to merely hear God's word; one must actively incline the ear and heart to understand and apply it. A lack of attentiveness is indicative of spiritual dullness, indifference, or outright rebellion against God's will.
* **Foundation of the Covenant:** The dynamic of God speaking and humanity being called to listen and obey (qashav) is central to the covenant relationship. This reciprocal communication and response form the bedrock of God's interaction with His people, shaping their identity, behavior, and destiny.
### Summary
The Hebrew word qashshâb (קַשָּׁב, `{{H7183}}`) describes one who is "hearkening" or "attentive," derived from the root qashav (קָשַׁב, `{{H7181}}`). While this particular adjectival form does not appear in the Hebrew Bible, its verbal root qashav is frequently used and embodies a crucial theological concept. Qashav signifies an active, intentional, and focused listening—a "giving ear" or "paying heed" that goes beyond mere auditory reception to encompass comprehension and readiness to respond. Theologically, this attentiveness is bidirectional: God graciously inclines His ear to humanity's prayers, demonstrating His compassion and faithfulness. Conversely, humanity is called to be profoundly attentive and responsive to God's commandments and word, a posture essential for obedience, wisdom, and a right covenant relationship. The concept of attentiveness is a cornerstone of biblical faith, contrasting with spiritual apathy and disobedience, and highlighting the vital importance of receptive hearts in walking with God.
TRV