They are powerless images, unworthy of the reverence that belongs to the living God alone.
“The idols of the nations are but silver and gold, The work of man’s hands.” (v.15) illustrates the psalmist’s deep conviction that all false gods are powerless. In the time this psalm was written, around the period of the Davidic kingdom (circa 1000 BC), neighboring nations often fashioned their deities out of metals and precious materials. While these idols were visually impressive, the psalmist insists they hold no true authority because they owe their very existence to human craftsmanship. This sets the God of Israel distinctly apart—He is not a work of human hands, but the everlasting Creator and sustainer of all things (Psalm 135:5). Such a reminder anticipates the New Testament’s teaching that God must be worshiped in spirit and truth (John 4:24), rather than through manmade images.
By calling these objects “the work of man’s hands” (v.15), the psalmist emphasizes how futile it is to trust in something that derives its form and shape from limited human beings. Other passages in Scripture echo this sentiment, warning believers not to put their faith in idols (Exodus 20:3-4). The futility of idolatry underscores the importance of recognizing the Lord’s sovereignty and unique nature. It is a call for devotion to the One who is truly worthy of praise, rather than devotion to the lifeless shapes fashioned by human skill.
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Psalms 135:15 meaning
“The idols of the nations are but silver and gold, The work of man’s hands.” (v.15) illustrates the psalmist’s deep conviction that all false gods are powerless. In the time this psalm was written, around the period of the Davidic kingdom (circa 1000 BC), neighboring nations often fashioned their deities out of metals and precious materials. While these idols were visually impressive, the psalmist insists they hold no true authority because they owe their very existence to human craftsmanship. This sets the God of Israel distinctly apart—He is not a work of human hands, but the everlasting Creator and sustainer of all things (Psalm 135:5). Such a reminder anticipates the New Testament’s teaching that God must be worshiped in spirit and truth (John 4:24), rather than through manmade images.
By calling these objects “the work of man’s hands” (v.15), the psalmist emphasizes how futile it is to trust in something that derives its form and shape from limited human beings. Other passages in Scripture echo this sentiment, warning believers not to put their faith in idols (Exodus 20:3-4). The futility of idolatry underscores the importance of recognizing the Lord’s sovereignty and unique nature. It is a call for devotion to the One who is truly worthy of praise, rather than devotion to the lifeless shapes fashioned by human skill.