Psalms Question
Question
In Psalm 146:8 it says that God gives sight to the blind, but it does not say that He restores hearing to the deaf. Why does this verse mention restoring sight but not restoring hearing? Is there a traditional Jewish or halachic explanation for this difference in the text of Tehillim?
Answer
Shalom!
Thank you for your question.
The emphasis on sight over hearing in Tanach in general, and in Psalm 146:8, in particular, may be based on the stigma of blindness over deafness. Indeed, even today blindness is seen as worse than deafness.
More importantly, "Opening the eyes of the blind" is used throughout Tanach to symbolize curing ALL physical and spiritual ailments.
Answered by
Author of the "Dalet Amot BeHalacha" series
Smicha Yoreh-Yoreh (1999) and Yadin-Yadin, author of "Dalet Amot BeHalacha" (11 volumes)
Orach Chaim, Yoreh Deah, Even HaEzer, Choshen Mishpat (excluding laws of interest)
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