Psalm 135:17 - Printer Friendly

ESV: they have ears, but do not hear, nor is there any breath in their mouths.

NIV: They have ears, but cannot hear, nor is there breath in their mouths.

NASB: They have ears, but they do not hear, Nor is there any breath at all in their mouths.

CSB: They have ears but cannot hear; indeed, there is no breath in their mouths.

NLT: They have ears but cannot hear, and mouths but cannot breathe.

KJV: They have ears, but they hear not; neither is there any breath in their mouths.

NKJV: They have ears, but they do not hear; Nor is there any breath in their mouths.

Psalm 135:13–18 compares God's power to that of idols and false gods. "The nations" are those outside of Israel. Their carved images and statues are mere objects. They have no actual life—and those who worship idols will be eternally lifeless, as well. Only the Lord is remembered forever thanks to His great love for His people (Psalm 78:2–4). Psalm 115:4–8 makes similar comments.

This psalm declares God's greatness with a series of comparisons. The psalmist calls on the temple workers to praise the Lord. He is superior to all idols or false gods. His sovereignty is absolute. He is more powerful than any human king or nation. His fame will never end. Manmade idols are lifeless objects, and those who worship them will become lifeless, as well. All those who honor the Lord should bring their praise.

This song mentions God's creation (Genesis 1:1) and His role in defeating Israel's enemies during the exodus (Exodus 12:29–30; Deuteronomy 29:7). Scripture often points out that objects such as idols have no power, at all (1 Chronicles 16:26; 1 Corinthians 8:4; 12:2). Jerusalem and Zion are often used as different names for the same city (2 Samuel 5:7; 1 Kings 8:1). Psalm 135 includes three uses of the renowned term halelu-yāh. Parts of this psalm resemble segments of Psalm 115.

The book of Psalms is composed of individual songs, hymns, or poems, each of which is a ''Psalm'' in and of itself. These works contain a wide variety of themes. Some Psalms focus on praising and worshipping God. Others cry out in anguish over the pain of life. Still other Psalms look forward to the coming of the Messiah. While some Psalms are related, each has its own historical and biblical context.

Accessed 3/29/2025 2:12:07 AM