What is the meaning of Psalm 135:16? They have mouths, but cannot speak • Psalm 135:16 exposes the emptiness of idols: “They have mouths, but cannot speak.” These carved figures possess the outward shape of a mouth, yet no real voice emerges. • Scripture repeatedly contrasts mute idols with the living God who speaks: – Psalm 115:4-7 echoes the same refrain, underscoring the futility of gods “made by human hands.” – Isaiah 44:16-19 depicts a man fashioning an idol from the same wood he uses to cook his dinner—highlighting how ridiculous it is to expect that block to answer prayer. – Jeremiah 10:5 says idols “cannot speak; they must be carried,” whereas the LORD “is the true God” (v. 10). • The God of Scripture is vocal and personal: Genesis 1 shows Him creating by His word; Exodus 3 records Him calling Moses by name; John 1:1-3 calls Jesus “the Word.” By spotlighting the mute mouth of an idol, the psalmist directs us to the God who still speaks today through His written Word (2 Timothy 3:16-17). • Practical takeaway: Anything we trust more than God—money, status, technology—will prove silent when life grows hard. Only the living God answers. They have eyes, but cannot see • The idols’ carved eyes never open: “They have eyes, but cannot see.” • Throughout Scripture, God’s seeing is a source of comfort and accountability: – 2 Chronicles 16:9: “For the eyes of the LORD roam to and fro throughout the earth to show Himself strong.” – Psalm 34:15: “The eyes of the LORD are on the righteous.” – Hebrews 4:13: “Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight.” • In contrast, idols completely lack awareness. They cannot notice injustice, offer guidance, or protect worshipers (1 Kings 18:26-29). • The psalmist therefore unmasks the folly of depending on anything sightless. God alone sees our hidden motives (1 Samuel 16:7) and our secret hurts (Exodus 3:7). • Practical takeaway: When tempted to lean on lifeless substitutes—whether a job title, a political movement, or a digital persona—we remember they cannot truly “see” us. The Lord alone perceives every need and acts in perfect wisdom. summary Psalm 135:16 paints a vivid contrast: man-made idols possess carved mouths and eyes yet remain mute and blind, proving their utter powerlessness. The living God, by contrast, speaks through His Word and sees every heart. Trusting Him, not lifeless substitutes, brings real help, guidance, and hope. |
    |