Psalms 49:4

4 I will turn my ear to a proverb; with the harp I will expound my riddle:

Psalms 49:4 in Other Translations

KJV
4 I will incline mine ear to a parable: I will open my dark saying upon the harp.
ESV
4 I will incline my ear to a proverb; I will solve my riddle to the music of the lyre.
NLT
4 I listen carefully to many proverbs and solve riddles with inspiration from a harp.
MSG
4 I fine-tuned my ear to the sayings of the wise, I solve life's riddle with the help of a harp.
CSB
4 I turn my ear to a proverb; I explain my riddle with a lyre.

Psalms 49:4 Meaning and Commentary

Psalms 49:4

I will incline mine ear to a parable
In which way of speaking the doctrines of the Gospel were delivered out by Christ, ( Matthew 13:3 Matthew 13:35 ) . Wherefore the prophet, representing his apostles and disciples, signifies that he would listen thereunto, that he might attain to the knowledge thereof, and communicate it to others;

I will open my dark saying upon the harp;
the enigmas, riddles, and mysteries of the Gospel, being understood by the ministers of it, are opened and explained in a very pleasant and delightful manner; they are made clear and evident, and are as a lovely song upon a harp; see ( Ezekiel 33:32 ) .

Psalms 49:4 In-Context

2 both low and high, rich and poor alike:
3 My mouth will speak words of wisdom; the meditation of my heart will give you understanding.
4 I will turn my ear to a proverb; with the harp I will expound my riddle:
5 Why should I fear when evil days come, when wicked deceivers surround me—
6 those who trust in their wealth and boast of their great riches?

Cross References 3

  • 1. Psalms 78:2; Proverbs 1:6; Ezekiel 12:22; Ezekiel 16:44; Ezekiel 18:2-3; Luke 4:23
  • 2. S 1 Samuel 16:16; Psalms 33:2
  • 3. S Numbers 12:8
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