EAR . Both in OT and NT the spiritual disposition to attend, which issues in obedience, is thus designated ( e.g. Isaiah 6:10 , Matthew 11:15 , Revelation 2:7 ). Hence ‘to uncover the ear’ (RVm [Note: Revised Version margin.] , 1 Samuel 9:15 etc.) = to reveal; the ‘uncircumcised ear’ ( Jeremiah 6:10 ) = the ear which remains unpurified and clogged and therefore unable to perceive: hence ‘mine ears hast thou opened’ ( Psalms 40:6 ) = Thou hast enabled me to understand. The perforated ear was a sign of slavery or dependence, indicating the obligation to attend ( Exodus 21:6 , Deuteronomy 15:16 f.). The tip of the priest’s right ear was touched with blood in token that the sense of hearing was consecrated to God’s service ( Exodus 29:20 , Leviticus 8:23 ).
J. Taylor.