Psalm 115:6

they have ears, but cannot hear; they have noses, but cannot smell;

Study Bible

They have ears
The phrase "They have ears" refers to the physical attribute of idols, which are often crafted with human-like features. In the Hebrew context, the word for "ears" is "אָזְנַיִם" (oznayyim). Ears symbolize the ability to listen and understand, a critical aspect of communication and relationship. In the ancient Near Eastern culture, hearing was associated with obedience and responsiveness. The psalmist highlights the futility of idols, which, despite having ears, are incapable of perceiving or responding to the prayers and cries of their worshippers. This serves as a stark contrast to the living God, who is described throughout Scripture as one who hears the cries of His people (e.g., Exodus 2:24).

but cannot hear
The inability to hear, "but cannot hear," underscores the impotence of idols. The Hebrew word for "hear" is "שָׁמַע" (shama), which implies not just the act of hearing but also understanding and responding. In the biblical narrative, God is often portrayed as one who hears and acts (e.g., Psalm 34:17). This phrase serves as a reminder of the living God's active engagement with His creation, contrasting sharply with the lifelessness of idols. The psalmist uses this imagery to emphasize the futility of idol worship and to call the people back to the worship of the one true God who is both willing and able to respond to His people.

noses
The mention of "noses" in the context of idols, "noses," is significant. In Hebrew, the word for "nose" is "אַף" (aph), which can also mean "anger" or "face," depending on the context. The nose, in ancient cultures, was often associated with the breath of life and the ability to discern through smell. The psalmist's inclusion of this feature highlights the absurdity of idols, which, though crafted with noses, lack the breath of life and the ability to discern or react. This imagery serves to remind the audience of the living God, who breathed life into humanity (Genesis 2:7) and who is actively involved in the world.

but cannot smell
The phrase "but cannot smell" further illustrates the lifelessness of idols. The Hebrew word for "smell" is "רִיחַ" (riach), which can also imply the perception of sacrifices and offerings. In the biblical context, God is often described as being pleased with the aroma of sacrifices offered in faith and obedience (e.g., Genesis 8:21). The inability of idols to smell signifies their incapacity to engage in any meaningful relationship with their worshippers. This serves as a powerful reminder of the living God's desire for a genuine relationship with His people, one that is marked by mutual recognition and response. The psalmist uses this imagery to call the people away from the futility of idol worship and towards a vibrant, living faith in God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Psalmist
The author of Psalm 115, traditionally attributed to David or another Israelite leader, who contrasts the living God with lifeless idols.

2. Idols
The focus of this verse, representing man-made objects of worship that are powerless and senseless.

3. Israel
The nation to whom the Psalm is addressed, often tempted by idolatry and called to worship the one true God.

4. Pagan Nations
Surrounding cultures that worshipped idols, influencing Israel and providing a backdrop for the Psalmist's warnings.

5. Temple Worship
The context in which the Psalm would be sung, emphasizing the worship of Yahweh over idols.

Teaching Points

The Futility of Idolatry
Idols are powerless and senseless, unable to respond to human needs. This highlights the futility of placing trust in anything other than God.

The Living God
Unlike idols, God is living and active, able to hear, see, and respond to His people. This should encourage believers to seek Him in prayer and worship.

Spiritual Discernment
Believers are called to discern the difference between the living God and lifeless idols, avoiding modern forms of idolatry such as materialism or self-reliance.

Faithfulness in Worship
The Psalm encourages exclusive worship of God, reminding believers of the importance of faithfulness in their relationship with Him.

Witness to the World
By rejecting idols and worshiping the true God, believers serve as a testimony to the world of God's power and reality.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the description of idols in Psalm 115:6 challenge our understanding of what we might idolize in today's world?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our worship is directed solely towards the living God and not towards "idols" in our lives?

3. How do the additional scriptures (Isaiah 44, Jeremiah 10, etc.) reinforce the message of Psalm 115:6 about the futility of idol worship?

4. What practical steps can we take to develop spiritual discernment and avoid modern forms of idolatry?

5. How can our faithfulness in worship serve as a witness to those around us who may be caught in idolatry or spiritual blindness?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 44
This chapter also mocks the futility of idol worship, describing the process of making idols and their inability to save or respond.

Jeremiah 10
Similar to Psalm 115, this passage contrasts the living God with lifeless idols, emphasizing God's power and sovereignty.

1 Kings 18
The account of Elijah and the prophets of Baal highlights the impotence of idols compared to the living God who answers prayer.

Acts 17
Paul's speech in Athens addresses the futility of idol worship and introduces the Athenians to the "unknown God" who is living and active.

Revelation 9
Describes the persistence of idol worship even in the face of divine judgment, underscoring the spiritual blindness associated with idolatry.