Psalms 94:9 KJV

He that planted the ear, shall he not hear? he that formed the eye, shall he not see?

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Psalms 94:9 Bible Commentary

Psalms 94:9 - Commentary Overview

Verse Context:

Psalms 94:9 states: "He that planted the ear, shall he not hear? He that formed the eye, shall he not see?" This verse articulates a profound theological truth regarding God's omniscience and omnipotence. The psalmist invites the reader to consider the Creator's intimate involvement with creation, particularly in the faculties of hearing and sight, which are crucial for understanding justice and righteousness.

Key Themes

  • God's Creation and Sovereignty: The verse highlights God's role as the creator of human faculties, suggesting that He inherently possesses the ability to perceive and understand the affairs of humanity.
  • Assurance of Divine Justice: The rhetorical questions posed underscore a deep confidence in God's justice. The psalmist reassures the faithful that God is aware of oppression and injustice.
  • Encouragement in Times of Trouble: The verse serves to comfort believers who may be experiencing suffering, providing them with the assurance that God is not indifferent to their plight.

Commentaries

Matthew Henry's Commentary

Matthew Henry elaborates on the psalmist’s assertions, emphasizing that God, as the creator of ears and eyes, is fully aware of all that aligns with or opposes His divine nature. To claim ignorance of human troubles would be contradictory to His nature as an all-seeing God. Henry suggests that the rhetorical questions effectively challenge those who might doubt God's ability to judge or respond to evil.

Albert Barnes' Notes on the Bible

Albert Barnes interprets this verse as a clear declaration of God's omniscience. He points out that if God has designed and created the human faculties necessary to perceive, it follows that He also possesses the ability to comprehend all human actions and the injustices occurring in the world. The implication is that God must respond to such injustices, affirming His character as a just judge who will not overlook wrongdoing.

Adam Clarke's Commentary

Adam Clarke notes that the psalmist uses this verse to call attention to the absurdity of believing that a God who created the capacity for hearing and seeing would be oblivious to human affairs. Clarke sees this as a profound theological statement that enables believers to trust in the righteous nature of God, even in dire circumstances. He emphasizes that the knowledge of God’s perceptiveness should comfort and strengthen the faith of those who feel oppressed or marginalized.

Theological Implications

This verse serves as a cornerstone for understanding God's relationship to humanity. Its implications extend into theology, spirituality, and ethics:

  • Omniscience: It affirms that God knows all things, including the deepest struggles and sufferings of His creation.
  • Call to Accountability: The acknowledgment of God's seeing and hearing creates a moral imperative for individuals to live justly, knowing that all actions are observed by the Creator.
  • Encouragement for the Afflicted: Those who suffer injustice are reassured that they are not overlooked, fostering hope and resilience in their faith.

Conclusion

Psalms 94:9 stands as a powerful affirmation of God's active role in creation and human affairs. The interplay between divine justice and human responsibility resonates throughout the psalm, offering both comfort for the weary and a challenge to those who perpetuate injustice. As believers reflect on this verse, they are urged to trust in God’s ultimate judgment and to live in a manner that reflects His righteousness.