Topical Encyclopedia The concept of the ear, particularly in its creation and function, is a significant theme in the Bible, illustrating God's intricate design and purpose for human beings. The ear is not only a physical organ but also a symbol of spiritual receptivity and obedience to God's word.Creation and Design The ear, as part of God's creation, is a testament to His wisdom and power. In Psalm 94:9 , the psalmist rhetorically asks, "He who planted the ear, does He not hear? He who formed the eye, does He not see?" This verse emphasizes that God, the Creator of the ear, is fully aware and attentive, highlighting His omniscience and the intentionality behind His creation. The ear's ability to hear and process sound reflects God's intricate design and His desire for humans to engage with the world and with Him. Spiritual Significance Beyond its physical function, the ear holds spiritual significance in the Bible. It is often used metaphorically to represent one's openness to God's voice and commandments. In the Old Testament, the Shema, a central declaration of faith, begins with the imperative to "hear": "Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one" (Deuteronomy 6:4). This call to hear underscores the importance of listening to and obeying God's word. The prophets frequently admonished the people of Israel for having ears but not truly hearing, indicating a spiritual deafness to God's messages. For instance, in Jeremiah 5:21 , the prophet declares, "Hear this, you foolish and senseless people, who have eyes but do not see, who have ears but do not hear." This highlights the disconnect between physical hearing and spiritual understanding, urging a deeper, more attentive listening to God's voice. New Testament Insights In the New Testament, Jesus often used the phrase, "He who has ears, let him hear" (e.g., Matthew 11:15), calling His listeners to pay attention and understand His teachings. This call to hear is not merely about auditory perception but about comprehending and acting upon His words. The parables of Jesus, in particular, required attentive listening and spiritual discernment to grasp their deeper meanings. The Apostle Paul also speaks to the importance of hearing in the context of faith. In Romans 10:17 , he writes, "Consequently, faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ." This underscores the role of the ear in the process of faith formation, as hearing the message of Christ is foundational to believing and living out the Christian faith. Conclusion The ear, as planted by God, serves as a profound symbol of both physical and spiritual hearing. It reflects God's creative power and His desire for His people to listen, understand, and respond to His word. Through the ear, believers are called to engage with God's truth, fostering a deeper relationship with Him and a faithful adherence to His will. Torrey's Topical Textbook Psalm 94:9He that planted the ear, shall he not hear? he that formed the eye, shall he not see? Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Nothing Escapes God's Knowledge. ... On the Words of the Gospel, Matt. xix. 28, "Come unto Me, all Ye ... The Church of God. That the Same God, by the Same Word, Restrains from Sin by ... Entering the Covenant: with all the Heart Waiting on God Second Sermon for the Twelfth Sunday after Trinity How any one Can Forget and Remember God. The Knowledge of God The Kingdom of God. Resources Summary of the Book of Nehemiah - Bible Survey | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the meaning of shibboleth in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Why won't God heal amputees? | GotQuestions.org Ear: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Ear: Anointed With Oil in Purifications Ear: Blood Put Upon, in Consecration of Priest Ear: Bored As a Sign of Servitude The Ear of Servants Who Refused to Leave Their Masters, Bored to The The Ear of the Wicked: Itching The Ear of the Wicked: Not Inclined to Hear God The Ear of the Wicked: Stopped Against God's Word The Ear of the Wicked: Turned Away from God's Law The Ear of the Wicked: Uncircumcised The Ear: Blood Put on the Right Ear of Priests at Consecration The Ear: Blood Put on the Right Ear of The Healed Leper in Cleansing Him The Ear: Capable of Trying and Distinguishing Words The Ear: God: Judicially Closed The Ear: Instruction Received Through The Ear: Not Satisfied With Earthly Things The Ear: Not to be Stopped at Cry of the Poor The Ear: Often Adorned With Rings The Ear: should be Bowed Down to Instructions The Ear: should be Given to the Law of God The Ear: should be Incline to Wisdom The Ear: should Hear and Obey Reproof The Ear: should Receive the Word of God The Ear: should Seek Knowledge The Ear: That Hears and Receives the Word of God, Blessed Related Terms The-not-beloved (1 Occurrence) Kir'iath-je'arim (18 Occurrences) Kirjathjearim (17 Occurrences) Vine-dressers (18 Occurrences) Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kibroth-hattaavah (5 Occurrences) |