Psalms 115:6

Authorized King James Version

They have ears, but they hear not: noses have they, but they smell not:

Word-by-Word Analysis

אָזְנַ֣יִם

H241

They have ears

broadness. i.e., (concrete) the ear (from its form in man)

לָ֭הֶם

וְלֹ֣א

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

יִשְׁמָ֑עוּ

H8085

but they hear

to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)

אַ֥ף

H639

not noses

properly, the nose or nostril; hence, the face, and occasionally a person; also (from the rapid breathing in passion) ire

לָ֝הֶ֗ם

וְלֹ֣א

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

יְרִיחֽוּן׃

H7306

have they but they smell

properly, to blow, i.e., breathe; only (literally) to smell or (by implication, perceive (figuratively, to anticipate, enjoy)

Analysis

This verse develops the worship and praise theme central to Psalms. The concept of divine revelation reflects the proper human response to God's character and works. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to worship literature expressing the full range of human experience before God, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the Israelite monarchy with its court politics and military conflicts. The author writes to address worshipers in the temple and those seeking God in times of distress, making the emphasis on worship and praise particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address questions about God's character and purposes in the modern world, and how should the church respond?
What practical applications emerge from understanding worship and praise as presented in this verse, particularly in light of contemporary challenges facing the church and individual believers?
How does the worship and praise theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?