In the biblical context, the phrase "the one who shuts his ears" is often associated with a person who deliberately ignores wisdom, instruction, or the cries of the needy. This concept is primarily derived from the wisdom literature of the Old Testament, particularly the Book of Proverbs, which emphasizes the importance of listening and heeding divine instruction.

Proverbs 21:13
The most direct reference to this concept is found in Proverbs 21:13: "Whoever shuts his ears to the cry of the poor, he too shall cry out and receive no answer." . This verse underscores a principle of divine justice and reciprocity. It suggests that those who ignore the needs of the less fortunate will themselves experience a lack of response in their time of need. This reflects a broader biblical theme that emphasizes compassion, mercy, and the responsibility of believers to care for others.

Proverbs 28:9
Another relevant passage is Proverbs 28:9: "Whoever turns his ear away from hearing the law, even his prayer is detestable." . Here, the focus is on the importance of adhering to God's law. The verse warns that neglecting divine commandments renders one's prayers unacceptable to God. This highlights the integral relationship between obedience to God's word and effective communication with Him.

Theological Implications
From a theological perspective, the act of shutting one's ears is seen as a willful rejection of God's guidance and a failure to live according to His will. It is a manifestation of pride and self-reliance, which are contrary to the humility and dependence on God that Scripture advocates. The Bible consistently calls believers to be attentive to God's voice, whether through Scripture, the Holy Spirit, or the needs of others.

Practical Application
In practical terms, the admonition against shutting one's ears serves as a call to action for Christians. It encourages believers to be attentive and responsive to the needs around them, to seek wisdom, and to remain open to God's instruction. This involves active listening, empathy, and a willingness to be moved to action by the plight of others.

New Testament Parallels
While the specific phrase "shuts his ears" is not prevalent in the New Testament, the concept is echoed in teachings about love, compassion, and obedience. For instance, James 1:22-25 emphasizes being doers of the word and not hearers only, which aligns with the idea of being receptive and responsive to God's commands.

In summary, "the one who shuts his ears" is a biblical motif that warns against ignoring divine instruction and the needs of others. It serves as a reminder of the importance of listening, obedience, and compassion in the life of a believer.