King James Version

What Does Psalms 135:18 Mean?

Psalms 135:18 in the King James Version says “They that make them are like unto them: so is every one that trusteth in them. — study this verse from Psalms chapter 135 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

They that make them are like unto them: so is every one that trusteth in them.

Psalms 135:18 · KJV


Context

16

They have mouths, but they speak not; eyes have they, but they see not;

17

They have ears, but they hear not; neither is there any breath in their mouths.

18

They that make them are like unto them: so is every one that trusteth in them.

19

Bless the LORD, O house of Israel: bless the LORD, O house of Aaron:

20

Bless the LORD, O house of Levi: ye that fear the LORD, bless the LORD.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The idol polemic reaches devastating conclusion: 'They that make them are like unto them: so is every one that trusteth in them.' This principle of spiritual conformity runs throughout Scripture - we become like what we worship. Idol makers share their idols' spiritual deadness: blind, deaf, mute, breathless in any spiritual sense. The Hebrew construction emphasizes exact correspondence: 'like them' (kemohem). Those who trust (batach) in idols place their confidence in emptiness and receive emptiness in return. Romans 1:21-23 develops this theme, showing how rejecting the Creator leads to degraded thinking and worship of created things. The positive corollary appears in 2 Corinthians 3:18: beholding the Lord's glory, believers 'are changed into the same image.' We are transformed into the likeness of whatever commands our deepest trust and devotion. This makes the choice of worship objects eternally consequential.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

The principle of becoming like what one worships was understood in ancient religion, where worshipers sought to embody their deity's characteristics through imitation. Israel's prophets turned this insight into judgment: those who worship nothing become nothing. This psychological and spiritual insight anticipates modern observations about how devotion shapes character.

Reflection Questions

  1. In what ways do people become like what they worship?
  2. How does worshiping the true God transform us into His image?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 7 words
כְּ֭מוֹהֶם1 of 7
H3644

as, thus, so

יִהְי֣וּ2 of 7
H1961

to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)

עֹשֵׂיהֶ֑ם3 of 7

They that make

H6213

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

כֹּ֭ל4 of 7
H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

אֲשֶׁר5 of 7
H834

who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc

בֹּטֵ֣חַ6 of 7

them are like unto them so is every one that trusteth

H982

properly, to hie for refuge (but not so precipitately as h2620); figuratively, to trust, be confident or sure

בָּהֶֽם׃7 of 7
H0

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Psalms. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Psalms 135:18 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Psalms 135:18 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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