Psalm 135:17

they have ears, but cannot hear; nor is there breath in their mouths.

Study Bible

They have ears
The phrase "They have ears" refers to the physical form of idols, which are often crafted to resemble living beings. In the Hebrew context, the word for "ears" is "אָזְנַיִם" (oznayyim), which signifies the organ of hearing. This highlights the irony and futility of idol worship, as these man-made objects possess the form of ears but lack the ability to perceive or respond. Historically, idols were crafted with great care and detail, yet they remained lifeless. This serves as a reminder of the living God who not only hears but also responds to the cries of His people, contrasting the impotence of idols with the omnipotence of God.

but cannot hear
The phrase "but cannot hear" emphasizes the incapacity of idols to engage with the world. The Hebrew word for "hear" is "שָׁמַע" (shama), which means to listen or to obey. This word is often used in the context of God hearing the prayers of His people. The inability of idols to hear underscores their powerlessness and the futility of relying on them for guidance or help. In a broader scriptural context, this serves as a call to trust in the living God, who is attentive and responsive to His creation.

nor is there breath
"Nor is there breath" speaks to the absence of life within idols. The Hebrew word for "breath" is "רוּחַ" (ruach), which can also mean spirit or wind. This word is often associated with the life-giving breath of God, as seen in Genesis when God breathes life into Adam. The absence of breath in idols highlights their lifelessness and contrasts with the life-giving power of God. This serves as a reminder that true life and vitality come from the Creator, not from created objects.

in their mouths
The phrase "in their mouths" refers to the mouths of idols, which, though crafted to appear as if they could speak, remain silent. The Hebrew word for "mouth" is "פֶּה" (peh), which is often used in the context of speech and communication. The inability of idols to speak signifies their lack of power and authority. In contrast, the Word of God is living and active, as described in Hebrews 4:12. This highlights the importance of seeking guidance and truth from God, who speaks through His Word and through His Spirit, rather than from lifeless idols.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Psalmist
The author of Psalm 135, traditionally attributed to King David or another inspired writer, who composes this psalm as a hymn of praise and a call to worship the one true God.

2. Idols
The verse refers to idols, which are man-made objects of worship that are lifeless and powerless, often crafted from materials like wood, stone, or metal.

3. Israel
The nation of Israel, God's chosen people, who are often warned against idolatry and encouraged to worship Yahweh alone.

4. Temple Worship
The context of Psalm 135 includes temple worship, where the Israelites would gather to praise God and be reminded of His mighty acts and supremacy over idols.

5. Pagan Nations
The surrounding nations of Israel, who often worshipped idols and false gods, contrasting with Israel's worship of the living God.

Teaching Points

The Futility of Idolatry
Idols are lifeless and powerless, unable to hear or respond to those who worship them. This highlights the futility of placing trust in anything other than the living God.

The Living God vs. Lifeless Idols
Unlike idols, God is alive, active, and responsive. He hears our prayers and acts on behalf of His people, demonstrating His sovereignty and power.

Guarding Against Modern Idolatry
While we may not worship physical idols today, anything that takes the place of God in our lives can become an idol. We must examine our hearts and ensure that our devotion is directed solely toward God.

The Importance of Spiritual Discernment
Believers are called to discern the truth and not be swayed by the empty promises of the world. True wisdom and understanding come from God alone.

Worship as a Response to God's Supremacy
Our worship should be directed to God alone, acknowledging His greatness and rejecting the false gods of our culture.

Bible Study Questions

1. What are some modern-day "idols" that people might be tempted to worship, and how can we guard against them in our own lives?

2. How does understanding the lifelessness of idols enhance our appreciation for the living God who hears and responds to us?

3. In what ways can we ensure that our worship remains focused on God and not on the distractions of the world?

4. How can the truths found in Psalm 135:17 encourage us in our prayer life and relationship with God?

5. What practical steps can we take to cultivate spiritual discernment and avoid being influenced by the "idols" of our culture?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 115:4-8
This passage similarly describes the futility of idols, emphasizing their inability to speak, see, hear, or act, and warns that those who make them will become like them.

Isaiah 44:9-20
Isaiah mocks the absurdity of idol-making, highlighting the foolishness of worshipping something crafted by human hands.

Jeremiah 10:5
Jeremiah describes idols as scarecrows in a cucumber field, unable to speak or move, and contrasts them with the living God.

1 Corinthians 8:4-6
Paul acknowledges that idols are nothing in the world and that there is only one God, reinforcing the monotheistic belief central to Christian faith.