Psalms 38:13
But I, as a deaf man, heard not; and I was as a dumb man that openeth not his mouth.
Psalms 38:13
In verse 13, the psalmist describes a deafness to hearing, akin to a person who does not respond or who remains silent when faced with correction. The imagery of a deaf man who does not listen and a dumb man who does not speak conveys a deliberate withdrawal from conversation and reproof. This could reflect a hardened posture in the midst of distress, a resistance to gentle admonition, or the discomfort of being corrected when one is overwhelmed. In ancient Near Eastern literature, silence could be a protective stance or a defensive reaction to unbearable pain. The verse emphasizes the spiritual dynamic of hearing and speaking in righteousness—ears attentive to God’s word, lips ready to speak truth and repentance. The grim honesty of the psalmist acknowledges his own tendency to withdraw rather than engage in corrective dialogue.
This verse underscores the moral agency of speech in the life of faith. Hearing and speaking, or choosing silence and inaction, reflect the condition of the heart before God. Theologically, it points to repentance where correction is desired and received, and it highlights the risk of spiritual deafness—closing one’s ears to God’s voice through pride, despair, or fatigue. The psalmist’s admission prompts believers to examine their own responsiveness to God’s word and to wise counsel, recognizing that silence or unresponsiveness can compound suffering and mislead others.
Practically: examine your own receptivity to feedback and correction. Are there situations in which you instinctively tune out counsel because it’s inconvenient or painful? Cultivate humility by inviting trusted friends or mentors to speak truth into your life. If you find yourself habitually silent or withdrawn in conflict, practice constructive dialogue: listen first, acknowledge, and respond with honesty rather than defensiveness. In a workplace or family setting, develop a culture where gentle reproof and accountability are welcomed. If you’re dealing with personal grief or trauma, seek support that helps you regain the ability to listen to truth and to speak words of repentance or plea for forgiveness as needed. The verse invites practical steps toward spiritual openness and restoration.
Cross-References: Proverbs 1:5; James 1:19–20; Psalm 51:17; Ezekiel 3:26