When the Psalmist declares, “They have ears, but they cannot hear; They have noses, but they cannot smell.” (v.6), he highlights the lifelessness and powerlessness of idols. These manmade objects are equipped with features that would normally indicate the ability to perceive the world, but they offer no real response or benefit. The author is using vivid imagery to stress that anything humans craft for worship is inherently inferior to the living God. While ears and noses may symbolize the capacity to sense and respond, these carved images remain silent and unresponsive, unlike the God who truly listens to prayers and perceives human need (Psalm 115:2-3).
The verse points to the supreme difference between a living Creator and all false gods, making a statement that echoes throughout the Old Testament. Prophets like Isaiah speak of similar themes, reminding us that idols remain mute and senseless (Isaiah 44:9-10). In contrast, the one true Lord actively governs creation and hears the cries of those who call upon Him. Later in the New Testament, Paul warns against idolatry by underlining that such worship is devoted to what has no power (1 Corinthians 8:4). This contrast encourages believers to rest their trust in the God who truly sees and hears, rather than any empty formula or physical object.
Set to dark mode
Psalms 115:6 meaning
When the Psalmist declares, “They have ears, but they cannot hear; They have noses, but they cannot smell.” (v.6), he highlights the lifelessness and powerlessness of idols. These manmade objects are equipped with features that would normally indicate the ability to perceive the world, but they offer no real response or benefit. The author is using vivid imagery to stress that anything humans craft for worship is inherently inferior to the living God. While ears and noses may symbolize the capacity to sense and respond, these carved images remain silent and unresponsive, unlike the God who truly listens to prayers and perceives human need (Psalm 115:2-3).
The verse points to the supreme difference between a living Creator and all false gods, making a statement that echoes throughout the Old Testament. Prophets like Isaiah speak of similar themes, reminding us that idols remain mute and senseless (Isaiah 44:9-10). In contrast, the one true Lord actively governs creation and hears the cries of those who call upon Him. Later in the New Testament, Paul warns against idolatry by underlining that such worship is devoted to what has no power (1 Corinthians 8:4). This contrast encourages believers to rest their trust in the God who truly sees and hears, rather than any empty formula or physical object.