Psalms 49:1-7

1 (48-1) <Unto the end, a psalm for the sons of Core.> (48-2) Hear these things, all ye nations: give ear, all ye inhabitants of the world.

2 (48-3) All you that are earthborn, and you sons of men: both rich and poor together.

3 (48-4) My mouth shall speak wisdom: and the meditation of my heart understanding.

4 (48-5) I will incline my ear to a parable; I will open my proposition on the psaltery.

5 (48-6) Why shall I fear in the evil day? the iniquity of my heel shall encompass me.

6 (48-7) They that trust in their own strength, and glory in the multitude of their riches,

7 (48-8) No brother can redeem, nor shall man redeem: he shall not give to God his ransom,

Psalms 49:1-7 Meaning and Commentary

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.