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
16
So don’t be dismayed when the wicked grow rich and their homes become ever more splendid.
17
For when they die, they take nothing with them. Their wealth will not follow them into the grave.
18
In this life they consider themselves fortunate and are applauded for their success.
19
But they will die like all before them and never again see the light of day.
20
People who boast of their wealth don’t understand; they will die, just like animals.
To the chief Musician, A Psalm for the sons of Korah. Aben Ezra says this psalm is a very excellent one, since in it is explained the Light of the world to come, and of the rational and immortal soul; and Kimchi is of opinion that it respects both this world and that which is to come: and indeed it treats of the vanity of trusting in riches: of the insufficiency of them for the redemption of the soul; of the short continuance of worldly honour and substance; of the certainty of death, and of the resurrection of the dead. And the design of it is to expose the folly of trusting in uncertain riches, and to comfort the people of God under the want of them.