Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical narrative, the concept of the "ear of the wicked" symbolizes a spiritual and moral disposition that is resistant to divine instruction and truth. This theme is recurrent throughout Scripture, illustrating the consequences of turning away from God's law and the inherent dangers of ignoring His commandments.Biblical References and Themes 1. Resistance to Divine Instruction: The wicked are often depicted as those who refuse to listen to God's law. Proverbs 28:9 states, "Whoever turns his ear away from hearing the law, even his prayer is detestable." This verse underscores the seriousness of ignoring divine instruction, suggesting that such an attitude renders one's spiritual practices ineffective and unacceptable to God. 2. Deafness to Wisdom: The wicked are portrayed as being deaf to wisdom and understanding. In Proverbs 1:24-25, wisdom personified cries out, "Because you refused my call, and no one took my outstretched hand, because you neglected all my counsel and wanted none of my correction." This passage highlights the willful ignorance of the wicked, who choose to reject the guidance and correction offered by God. 3. Consequences of Turning Away: The Bible warns of the dire consequences for those who turn their ears away from God's law. In Zechariah 7:11-12, it is written, "But they refused to pay attention and turned a stubborn shoulder; they stopped their ears from hearing. They made their hearts like flint and would not listen to the law or to the words that the LORD of Hosts had sent by His Spirit through the earlier prophets." This hardening of the heart leads to spiritual blindness and separation from God's blessings. 4. Contrast with the Righteous: In contrast to the wicked, the righteous are those who delight in God's law and listen attentively to His voice. Psalm 1:2 describes the blessed man as one whose "delight is in the law of the LORD, and on His law he meditates day and night." This contrast serves to highlight the importance of an obedient and receptive heart. 5. Call to Repentance: Despite the grim portrayal of the wicked, Scripture consistently offers a call to repentance and a return to God's ways. Isaiah 55:3 invites, "Incline your ear and come to Me; listen, so that your soul may live. I will make an everlasting covenant with you, My loving devotion assured to David." This invitation emphasizes God's desire for all to turn from their wicked ways and embrace His covenant of love and mercy. Theological Implications The theme of the "ear of the wicked" serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of obedience and attentiveness to God's Word. It reflects the broader biblical narrative of human rebellion and divine grace, where God continually calls His people to listen, repent, and return to Him. The resistance of the wicked to God's law is not merely a matter of ignorance but a deliberate choice that leads to spiritual alienation. The Scriptures urge believers to cultivate a heart that is open and responsive to God's voice, ensuring that their lives are aligned with His will and purpose. Torrey's Topical Textbook Proverbs 28:9He that turns away his ear from hearing the law, even his prayer shall be abomination. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Later English Reformers. Later English Reformers God's People Delivered. God's People Delivered Ahab and Naboth What is God's Will? The World Turned Upside Down A Prophet's Woes The Character of the Persons for whom this Rest is Designed. Man. 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) |