תהלים, פרק קל״ה, פסוק י״ז

The idols crafted by the nations are exposed in their absolute nothingness, resembling silent, lifeless dolls. This stark reality naturally evokes a sense of mockery toward those who choose to worship them [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Though they are fashioned with ears, they are entirely incapable of the simple act of hearing [מצודת ציון].

The profound stillness of these statues goes far beyond an inability to communicate. The primary approach among commentators is to emphasize their absolute lack of vitality. It goes without saying that these figures cannot speak like human beings. More strikingly, they lack even the most basic life force found in a common animal, such as the simple breath that travels from the heart and out through the mouth [רש״י, רד״ק, מצודת דוד]. Because they are completely devoid of any internal spirit, they lack even the simplest physical functions. Therefore, there is not even a reason to point out their inability to smell or breathe through a nose [רש״י, אלשיך].

This total absence of life highlights their complete lack of real substance. When compared to the living world, a profound contrast emerges. If living, breathing human beings are sometimes viewed as fleeting or empty, it is all the more true for these statues. Lacking even the most minimal existence of breath, they are entirely without reality [אלשיך].