Old Testament
Psalms 115:7
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
This verse highlights the futility of idol worship by describing the lifelessness of idols.
- Author
- David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, and others
- Written
- Around 1000-500 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and worship
- Original Audience
- Worshipers of Israel
They have hands, but they do not handle. They have feet, but they do not walk. Neither do they speak through their throat.
They have hands, but they handle not: feet have they, but they walk not: neither speak they through their throat.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse highlights the futility of idol worship by describing the lifelessness of idols. They are depicted as having physical features like hands and feet, yet they cannot perform any actions or communicate. This serves to emphasize that these idols are powerless and cannot help their worshippers. The psalmist contrasts the living God, who is active and responsive, with these inanimate objects that cannot fulfill any needs or desires. The imagery suggests that reliance on such idols is misguided, as they lack the ability to act or speak, making them ineffective in providing guidance or support. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of worshiping a living God who is capable of engaging with His people, unlike the lifeless idols that cannot respond or assist in any way. Explore related idolatry.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Psalms 115:7 to your life
In our modern lives, we may not worship physical idols, but we can still place our trust in things that are ultimately powerless, like wealth or status. This verse encourages us to evaluate what we truly rely on and to ensure our faith is placed in the living God who can act and respond to our needs.
Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Psalms 115:7 mean?
Psalms 115:7 illustrates the lifelessness of idols by stating they have hands and feet but cannot act or speak. This emphasizes the futility of idol worship, contrasting these powerless objects with the living God who can respond to His people.
What is the meaning of 'hands' and 'feet' in Psalms 115:7?
In Psalms 115:7, 'hands' and 'feet' symbolize the physical attributes of idols, which are depicted as having the appearance of life but lack the ability to perform actions or communicate. This highlights their powerlessness and inability to assist worshippers.
How does Psalms 115:7 relate to modern life?
Psalms 115:7 encourages us to reflect on what we place our trust in today. While we may not worship physical idols, we can still rely on things like wealth or status that ultimately lack power, reminding us to focus our faith on the living God.
What themes are present in Psalms 115:7?
Key themes in Psalms 115:7 include idolatry, the powerlessness of idols, the contrast between false gods and the living God, and the futility of relying on inanimate objects for support or guidance.
The Book of Psalms
Psalm 1: Two Paths
This psalm describes two paths. The blessed person does not follow the counsel of the ungodly, does not stand in the way of sinners, and does not sit among the scornful. Instead, this person delights in the law of the LORD and thinks on it day and night.
Unlock the full Psalms summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of Psalms — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 150 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of Psalms summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.