Psalms 135:16
They have mouths, but they speak not; eyes have they, but they see not;
Psalms 135:16 (KJV)
Context
Psalm 135 is a song of praise that celebrates the greatness of the living God. In this verse, the psalmist contrasts God with idols made by human hands. The same picture appears in Psalm 115:4-8, where idols are described as having mouths, eyes, and ears, yet they cannot speak, see, or hear. This repeated image shows how foolish it is to trust in lifeless objects.
Meaning
The verse points to the emptiness of idols. They have mouths, but they are silent. They have eyes, but they are blind. These are not living beings with hidden powers; they are helpless creations of wood, stone, or metal. Their makers gave them shape, but no breath, no voice, and no sight. The psalmist uses this sharp contrast to show that only the living God truly speaks and sees.
Biblical connections
The same truth appears in Psalm 115:5, where idols are said to have mouths but cannot speak and eyes but cannot see. In Psalm 135:17, the description continues: idols have ears but cannot hear, and there is no breath in their mouths. These verses together stress that idols are completely powerless. In contrast, the living God speaks through His Word and sees all that happens, guiding His people with wisdom and care.
Application
This verse calls us to examine what we truly rely on. Modern idols are not carved images, but they can be material possessions, worldly ambitions, or personal desires that we place above God. Such things are like the idols of old: they promise much but cannot speak truth or see our need. They cannot save, guide, or satisfy. The psalmist invites us to turn away from every powerless substitute and trust in the living God, who alone can speak and act on our behalf.
Reflection
God is not distant or silent. He sees our struggles and speaks through His Word. Unlike the lifeless idols, He is fully present and actively involved in our lives. This truth brings comfort and hope. It also calls us to worship Him alone, with hearts that rely on His power rather than on anything we have made or achieved.
