Bible Study:What does Psalm chapter 115 mean?
Chapter Context
This psalm emphasizes the superiority of the Lord, the One True God, with the false idols and lifeless statues of pagan religions. This is part of the so-called "Egyptian Hallel" (Psalm 113—118). The songs in this segment repeatedly use the Hebrew expression halelu-yāh, brought nearly unchanged into English as "hallelujah." The nation of Israel often struggled with idolatry (2 Kings 17:12; 2 Chronicles 24:18; Isaiah 2:8); this psalm is a call for faithfulness.
What does Psalm chapter 115 mean?
At major celebrations, Israel would recite (Mark 14:26) from a series of songs often called the
Halle (Psalm 113—118). These frequently use the expression "hallelujah," or
halelu-yāh, literally meaning "praise the
Lord!"
This song takes aim at the idea of idols: manmade carvings and objects which are worshipped as if they have power. Israel chooses—or should choose—to give all glory and honor to the Lord. Pagans may laugh at the idea of an invisible deity. But the Lord of Israel is the only True God. He is not controlled or limited by anything (Psalm 115:1–3).
Idols are useless because they are just unmoving objects made by fallen men. Even when made of precious metals, they have no long-term value. They may have parts shaped like those of man, such as feet, hands, eyes, and ears; none of those make the figure living or active. Those who put trust in false gods they built themselves (Habakkuk 2:18; Jeremiah 10:5; 1 Corinthians 12:2) will eventually become just as powerless and lifeless as their totems (Psalm 115:4–8).
To avoid that fate, the psalmist calls on Israel to remember their history and to respond with trust and faithfulness towards the Lord. The psalmist wishes a blessing on all those who worship the Lord, then points out those who are dead cannot offer the Lord further praise. With God on their side, the people can trust Him to bring them through any crisis (Psalm 115:9–18).
