He that planted the ear, shall he not hear? he that formed the eye, shall he not see?
PSALMS 94:9KJVWhat does Psalms 94:9 mean?
Psalms 94:9 points out that the God who created human ears and eyes is fully able to hear and see everything. The verse uses a simple, logical question to remind readers that God’s awareness is complete—nothing escapes His notice.
In this psalm, the writer is speaking to people who doubt that God sees injustice or hears cries for help. By mentioning the one who “planted the ear” and “formed the eye,” the psalmist highlights God as the Creator, making it clear that God’s abilities far surpass those of humans. The verse is meant to challenge anyone who thinks God is unaware or indifferent to what happens in the world.
The Hebrew behind Psalms 94:9
- “planted” (נָטַע, nata‘): This word usually refers to planting or setting something firmly, like a tree. Here, it pictures God as the one who designed and established the ear, emphasizing His craftsmanship and intention.
- “formed” (יָצַר, yatsar): This word means to shape or mold, like a potter with clay. It shows God’s careful, hands-on work in making the human eye, suggesting personal involvement and skill.
- “hear” (שָׁמַע, shama‘): This is the common word for hearing or listening. The verse uses it to draw a direct link: if God made the ear, He certainly has the power to hear.
- “see” (נָבַט, nabat): This word means to look at or observe. By using it, the psalmist stresses that God, who made the eye, is always watchful and attentive.
Why Psalms 94:9 matters
- Psalms 94:9 corrects the mistaken idea that God is distant or unaware of human actions, especially wrongdoing.
- The verse emphasizes God’s role as Creator, reminding readers that His abilities are not limited like human senses.
- In the context of the psalm, this verse reassures those suffering injustice that God truly knows what is happening and will respond in His time.