The Hebrew noun ozen means ear, and by extension, hearing, attention, or understanding. It occurs over 185 times in the Old Testament in both literal and figurative contexts. The phrase 'open the ear' means to reveal or give understanding, while 'heavy ears' describes spiritual deafness.
Ozen carries rich metaphorical weight throughout Scripture. To 'incline the ear' is to give devoted attention and obedience (Psalm 45:10). God is said to have an ozen — He hears the prayers of the righteous (Psalm 34:15). The Servant of the LORD in Isaiah 50:4–5 has his 'ear opened' each morning to receive God's word. This pictures the ideal disciple: one who listens before speaking, who is taught before teaching. The failure to hear God (lo shama) is the root of Israel's covenant unfaithfulness throughout the prophets.