The term "inclinest" is an archaic form of the verb "incline," which appears in various translations of the Bible, including older versions such as the King James Version. In the context of Scripture, "incline" generally refers to the act of bending or turning one's ear, heart, or mind towards something, often in a posture of attentiveness, obedience, or prayer.

Biblical Usage and Context

1. Inclining the Ear: The concept of inclining one's ear is frequently used in the Bible to denote listening intently to God's word or wisdom. In Proverbs 2:2 , it is written, "making your ear attentive to wisdom and inclining your heart to understanding." This verse emphasizes the importance of actively seeking and valuing divine wisdom, suggesting a posture of humility and eagerness to learn from God.

2. Inclining the Heart: The heart, in biblical terms, often represents the center of one's will and emotions. To incline the heart towards God is to align one's desires and intentions with His will. In Psalm 119:36 , the psalmist prays, "Turn my heart to Your testimonies and not to covetous gain." This plea reflects a desire for spiritual alignment and a rejection of worldly temptations.

3. God's Inclination: The Bible also speaks of God inclining His ear towards His people, signifying His readiness to listen and respond to their prayers. In Psalm 116:2 , the psalmist declares, "Because He has inclined His ear to me, I will call on Him as long as I live." This portrays a relationship of intimacy and trust between the believer and God, where the Almighty is depicted as attentive and compassionate.

4. Prayer and Supplication: The act of inclining is often associated with prayer, where the believer seeks God's attention and favor. In Daniel 9:18 , Daniel prays, "Incline Your ear, my God, and hear; open Your eyes and see the desolation of the city that bears Your name." Here, Daniel appeals to God's mercy and intervention, demonstrating a deep reliance on divine grace.

Theological Implications

The use of "inclinest" and its variations in Scripture underscores the dynamic relationship between God and humanity. It highlights the reciprocal nature of communication with God—where believers are called to actively listen and respond to God's word, and God, in turn, is portrayed as a responsive and caring deity. This concept encourages believers to cultivate a posture of attentiveness and obedience, fostering a deeper spiritual connection with the Creator.

Practical Application

For contemporary believers, the call to incline one's ear and heart serves as a reminder to prioritize spiritual disciplines such as prayer, meditation on Scripture, and the pursuit of godly wisdom. It challenges individuals to remain open and responsive to God's guidance, ensuring that their lives reflect His will and purpose.

Psalm LI.
... Thou [1808] dost love that in David, which in himself David hated: thou makest thee
ready to sin, thou inclinest to sin: in order that thou mayest sin thou ...
/...//christianbookshelf.org/augustine/exposition on the book of psalms/psalm li.htm

How Herod, by Permission from Caesar Accused his Sons Before an ...
... thou mayst indeed so punish them, that thou mayst not appear to indulge thy anger
more than to govern thyself by judgment; but if thou inclinest to the milder ...
/.../josephus/the antiquities of the jews/chapter 11 how herod by.htm

A Treatise against the Heretic Novatian by an Anonymous Bishop.
... And yet thou, O Novatian, judgest and declarest that the lapsed have no hope of
peace and mercy, nor inclinest thine ear to the rebuke of the apostle, when he ...
/.../a treatise against the heretic.htm

Oration Concerning Simeon and Anna
... Lord of mercy, who hast deigned, of Thine own glory and goodness, which provides
for all, of Thy gracious condescension, with which Thou inclinest towards us ...
/.../the writings of methodius fragments/oration concerning simeon and anna.htm

From his Entrance on the Ministry in 1815, to his Commission to ...
... Whenever thou inclinest to unbosom to me thou mayest do it with freedom and in
confidence, for, be assured, if thy complaints cannot meet with relief, they ...
/.../chapter ii from his entrance.htm

Inclinest (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Inclinest (1 Occurrence). Proverbs 2:2 To cause thine
ear to attend to wisdom, Thou inclinest thy heart to understanding, (YLT). ...
/i/inclinest.htm - 6k

Inclineth (10 Occurrences)

/i/inclineth.htm - 9k

Inclines (3 Occurrences)

/i/inclines.htm - 7k

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