Psalms 49:13

13 This is the fate of fools, though they are remembered as being wise. Interlude

Psalms 49:13 Meaning and Commentary

Psalms 49:13

This their way [is] their folly
This their last end becoming like the beasts that perish, which is the issue and event of all their confidence, ambition, and honour, shows the folly of their lives and conduct: or this their course of life, in trusting to their riches; boasting of their wealth; pleasing themselves with the thoughts of the continuance of their houses and dwelling places to all generations; and calling their lands after their own names; all proclaim their folly. Or, as some render the words, "this their way [is] their hope" or "confidence" ^F2; they place all their hope and confidence in their riches and honour, which is but a vain hope and a foolish confidence;

yet their posterity approve their sayings;
they are of the same sentiments with their fathers; they say the same things, and do the same actions; tread in their steps, and follow the same track; though there have been such innumerable instances of the vanity and inconstancy of all worldly riches and grandeur.

Selah; on this word, (See Gill on Psalms 3:2).

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FOOTNOTES:

F2 (wml lok) "est fiducia ipsorum", Cocceius, Gejerus; "stolida fiducia vel spes", Michaelis.

Psalms 49:13 In-Context

11 The grave is their eternal home, where they will stay forever. They may name their estates after themselves,

12 but their fame will not last. They will die, just like animals.

13 This is the fate of fools, though they are remembered as being wise. Interlude

14 Like sheep, they are led to the grave, where death will be their shepherd. In the morning the godly will rule over them. Their bodies will rot in the grave, far from their grand estates.

15 But as for me, God will redeem my life. He will snatch me from the power of the grave. Interlude

Footnotes

• [a]. The meaning of the Hebrew is uncertain.