εἰσακούω (eisakouō)
eisakouō
to listen to
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 5 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb eisakouō describes a response to hearing that goes beyond simple perception; it means to give heed or comply with what is heard. Derived from the preposition eis ("into") and akouō ("to hear"), it suggests listening in such a way that one enters into the reality of the message. In the New Testament, this word often carries the weight of obedience, as when Paul references Deuteronomy to describe Israel’s failure to listen to God’s voice (1 Corinthians 14:21).
It also appears in contexts where prayers are heard and answered. The sources note its use for Zechariah being heard because of his righteousness (Luke 1:13) and Cornelius’s prayers ascending before God (Acts 10:31). In these instances, the focus is on divine attention to human petition. Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 6:7 warns against empty repetition, implying that God listens to sincere appeals rather than mere words.
This word bridges the gap between hearing and action. Whether applied to human obedience or divine response, it emphasizes a connection established through attentive listening. It is not passive reception but an active engagement that leads to compliance or relief.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word eisakouō moves beyond simple hearing; it describes a listening that leads to action or answer. When we pray, this term reminds us that God is not merely recording our words but actively engaging with our hearts. It suggests that true prayer involves a sincere connection where the listener responds to the speaker's need.
This assurance brings comfort in times of uncertainty. Whether facing personal struggles or seeking guidance, knowing that God listens with intent allows us to approach Him with honesty. We do not need elaborate speeches or perfect phrasing; He values the genuine posture of our spirit over the volume of our voice.
Ultimately, this concept bridges the gap between our petitions and divine response. It invites us to trust that our cries are seen and heard, fostering a relationship built on attentive care rather than ritualistic repetition.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 5 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- has been heard2×
- will they hear1×
- they will be heard.1×
- having been heard1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- εἰσηκούσθη2×
- εἰσακούσονταί1×
- εἰσακουσθήσονται.1×
- εἰσακουσθεὶς1×
Key Verses
-
Luke 1:13
But the angel said to him, “Don’t be afraid, Zacharias, because your request has been heard. Your wife, Elizabeth, will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John.
The angel confirms Zechariah's specific request has been heard, linking divine attention to personal petition.
-
Acts 10:31
and said, ‘Cornelius, your prayer is heard, and your gifts to the needy are remembered in the sight of God.
Cornelius receives direct assurance that his prayers and acts of charity are remembered by God.
-
Hebrews 5:7
He, in the days of his flesh, having offered up prayers and petitions with strong crying and tears to him who was able to save him from death, and having been heard for his godly fear,
Jesus' heartfelt cries were heard, demonstrating that godly fear and sincere supplication reach the Father.