A Greek verb meaning to listen to, to hearken, to give ear with attention. The prefix epi- intensifies the act of hearing. Used in 2 Corinthians 6:2 where Paul quotes Isaiah 49:8 — "In the time of my favor I heard (epakouo) you, and in the day of salvation I helped you."
The divine epakouo — God's attentive hearing of prayer and need — is one of the most comforting themes in Scripture. Isaiah 49:8 describes God's hearing in the context of the Servant's mission: the Servant calls, and God answers in the "favorable time." Paul quotes this verse in 2 Corinthians 6:2 to announce that the favorable time has arrived — the day of salvation is now. God's attentive hearing is not passive; it is active, responsive, and timed with precision. Every cry for mercy reaches the ears of a God who is inclined to listen.