Psalms 135:16

They have mouths, but they speak not; eyes have they, but they see not;

Word-by-Word Analysis

פֶּֽה

H6310

They have mouths

the mouth (as the means of blowing), whether literal or figurative (particularly speech); specifically edge, portion or side; adverbially (with prepos

לָ֭הֶם

H1992

they (only used when emphatic)

וְלֹ֣א

H3808

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

יְדַבֵּ֑רוּ

H1696

but they speak

perhaps properly, to arrange; but used figuratively (of words), to speak; rarely (in a destructive sense) to subdue

עֵינַ֥יִם

H5869

not eyes

an eye (literally or figuratively); by analogy, a fountain (as the eye of the landscape)

לָ֝הֶ֗ם

H1992

they (only used when emphatic)

וְלֹ֣א

H3808

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

יִרְאֽוּ׃

H7200

have they but they see

to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of the progressive revelation of God's purposes throughout Scripture, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?