The term "hearkenedst" is an archaic form of the verb "hearken," which means to listen attentively or give heed. In the context of the Bible, it often refers to the act of listening to God's commands, instructions, or warnings. The use of "hearkenedst" is primarily found in older translations of the Bible, such as the King James Version, but the concept remains significant in understanding the relationship between God and His people.

Biblical Context

In the Scriptures, the act of hearkening is frequently associated with obedience and faithfulness. When God calls His people to hearken, He is urging them to listen with the intent to obey. This is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, where the blessings of God are often contingent upon the people's willingness to listen and follow His commandments.

Examples in Scripture

1. Deuteronomy 28:1 : "Now if you faithfully obey the voice of the LORD your God and are careful to follow all His commandments I am giving you today, the LORD your God will set you high above all the nations of the earth." Here, the concept of hearkening is tied to the blessings that follow obedience. The Israelites are called to listen to God's voice and adhere to His laws to receive His favor.

2. Jeremiah 7:23 : "But this is what I commanded them: 'Obey My voice, and I will be your God, and you will be My people. You must walk in all the ways I have commanded you, so that it may go well with you.'" In this passage, God emphasizes the importance of hearkening to His voice as a condition for a covenant relationship with Him.

3. Psalm 81:13 : "If only My people would listen to Me, if Israel would follow My ways." This verse reflects God's longing for His people to hearken to Him, highlighting the blessings and protection that come with obedience.

Theological Significance

The act of hearkening is not merely about passive listening but involves an active response to God's word. It is a demonstration of faith and trust in God's wisdom and authority. Throughout the Bible, the failure to hearken often leads to consequences, while obedience brings about divine favor and guidance.

Practical Application

For believers today, the call to hearken remains relevant. It involves a commitment to reading and meditating on Scripture, seeking God's guidance through prayer, and being attentive to the leading of the Holy Spirit. By hearkening to God's voice, Christians are encouraged to live lives that reflect His will and purpose.

In summary, "hearkenedst" encapsulates the biblical principle of listening with the intent to obey, a foundational aspect of the covenant relationship between God and His people.

The Oration of Moses at the Rehearsal of the Blessing and the ...
... And all these curses shall come upon thee, and shall pursue thee, and overtake thee,
till thou be destroyed; because thou hearkenedst not unto the voice of the ...
/.../various/select masterpieces of biblical literature/i the oration of moses.htm

Hearkenedst (2 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Hearkenedst (2 Occurrences). ... This hath been thy way from
thy youth, that thou hearkenedst not unto my voice. (DBY JPS). ...
/h/hearkenedst.htm - 7k

Hearkened (171 Occurrences)
... 28:45 Moreover all these curses shall come upon thee, and shall pursue thee, and
overtake thee, till thou be destroyed; because thou hearkenedst not unto the ...
/h/hearkened.htm - 39k

Hearkenest (2 Occurrences)

/h/hearkenest.htm - 7k

Hearken (253 Occurrences)
... 28:45 Moreover all these curses shall come upon thee, and shall pursue thee, and
overtake thee, till thou be destroyed; because thou hearkenedst not unto the ...
/h/hearken.htm - 38k

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus