What was Hearken?

“Hearken” is not a person or place, but a key biblical term used frequently throughout Scripture, including in 1 Kings 22, to describe the act of listening attentively and obediently, particularly to God’s Word or to a prophet’s message. The word reflects not only the act of hearing but also the intent to respond appropriately. In 1 Kings 22:19-28, the prophet Micaiah commands King Ahab and those present to “hearken” to the word of the Lord. This word underscores a vital biblical theme: true hearing leads to obedience.

In Hebrew, the word translated as “hearken” is שָׁמַע (shamaʿ), meaning “to hear,” “listen,” or “obey.” It appears in a variety of contexts in the Old Testament, often in covenantal or prophetic settings. The Greek equivalent in the New Testament is ἀκούω (akouō), carrying a similar meaning of active listening that produces faith and action (cf. Romans 10:17).

Biblical References and Cross-References

The term “hearken” appears throughout the Bible, including prominently in 1 Kings 22:28, when Micaiah says, “If you ever return safely, the Lord has not spoken through me.” Then he added, ‘Mark my words, all you people!’” (NIV). The older translations render this as “Hearken, O people, every one of you!”—a call to attentively heed God’s message.

Other key references include:

• Deuteronomy 6:4 – “Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one.” (Shema)

• Psalm 81:8 – “Hear, my people, and I will warn you—if you would only listen to me, Israel!”

• Jeremiah 7:23-24 – God commands obedience, but Israel refused to hearken.

• Matthew 17:5 – “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased. Listen to him!”

These verses emphasize the consistent call of God for His people to hear and obey, often using the word “hearken” to communicate the need for heartfelt response.

What Happened in 1 Kings 22?

In 1 Kings 22, King Ahab of Israel and King Jehoshaphat of Judah consider going to war against Ramoth Gilead. Jehoshaphat asks that they first inquire of the Lord. Ahab gathers 400 prophets who promise success, but they are false prophets speaking what the king wants to hear. Jehoshaphat insists on hearing a true prophet of the Lord, so Micaiah son of Imlah is summoned.

Micaiah initially mocks the king with sarcasm, but then delivers a true prophecy: Israel will be scattered like sheep without a shepherd, and Ahab will die if he goes into battle. Ahab rejects Micaiah’s word, imprisons him, and proceeds to battle in disguise. Despite his efforts, Ahab is fatally wounded, fulfilling Micaiah’s prophecy.

The word “hearken” is pivotal here. The people and the kings are urged to listen and obey the word of the Lord, but Ahab chooses to ignore it—leading to his downfall.

What It Means for Today’s Christians

“Hearken” is more than an old-fashioned term—it’s a spiritual discipline. For Christians today, it challenges us to:

• Not just hear God’s Word but to obey it (James 1:22).

• Discern truth from flattery or deception, as Ahab failed to do.

• Respect the voice of God‘s prophets and messengers even when the message is difficult.

This is especially urgent in an age when people often seek affirming messages rather than truthful ones. True faith listens with a heart ready to follow.

How It Points to Jesus and the Gospel

Jesus Christ is the ultimate Prophet, the Word made flesh (John 1:14). At the Transfiguration, God commands, “This is my Son, whom I love. Listen to Him!” (Matthew 17:5). The call to “hearken” reaches its fullest expression in the gospel: repent and believe in Jesus Christ.

To hear Jesus is to receive eternal life (John 5:24). He is the Shepherd, and His sheep listen to His voice (John 10:27). Failing to hearken, like Ahab, leads to judgment; responding in faith, like those who followed Christ, leads to salvation.

Broader Biblical Themes

Obedience from the Heart

“Hearken” blends listening and obedience—the essence of the biblical idea of covenant faithfulness.

Prophetic Authority

Just as Micaiah spoke the word of the Lord even in the face of persecution, so all Scripture is God-breathed and must be received as authoritative (2 Timothy 3:16-17).

Judgment and Mercy

Ahab’s refusal to hearken led to judgment, reminding us that God’s warnings are acts of mercy to turn us from destruction.

Spiritual Discernment

Jehoshaphat’s desire to hear a true prophet shows the importance of testing the spirits (1 John 4:1) and seeking the counsel of God over human opinion.

Reflection Questions

1. Do I merely hear the Word of God, or do I truly hearken—listening with the intent to obey?

2. Am I surrounding myself with truth, even when it is hard to accept, or am I listening to what my itching ears want to hear (2 Timothy 4:3)?

3. How can I cultivate a heart that is quick to hear and quick to obey God’s Word?

4. In what ways do I see Jesus fulfilling the call to “hearken” in my life?

5. What “prophetic” voices or biblical truths am I currently resisting, and what might be the cost of ignoring them?

To “hearken” is to live a life of obedience fueled by faith—a life that listens carefully to the voice of the Lord and responds with trust and action.