Psalm 49 Study Notes
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49:10-12 This section as well as vv. 16-20 are similar to the arguments in other Wisdom texts, especially Ecclesiastes, about the futility of wealth: it is left to others (39:6; Ec 2:18), graves are the permanent homes of the wealthy (Ec 12:5), they are like . . . animals that perish (Ec 3:19), they will take nothing with them (Jb 27:19; Ps 49:17), and they praise themselves (v. 18; Dt 29:18; Lk 12:19).
49:13 Those who trust in material wealth are arrogant and surround themselves with people who say “yes” at their words.
49:14 The sheep and shepherd imagery is used in positive contexts where God shepherds his people (see note at 23:1); it is used negatively when describing evil leaders who misdirect God’s people and lead them into sin (Ezk 34:2-10). Here it is clearly a negative image personifying Death as the shepherd of those who trust in their wealth. It leads them into Sheol, Death’s realm.
49:15 Redeem is used again as in vv. 7-8, but here God does have the power to redeem his own.
49:16-20 On the wealthy and their destiny, see note at vv. 10-12.