Psalms 49:6
“They that trust in their wealth, and boast themselves in the multitude of their riches;”
Psalms 49:6 in 8 translations
- KJVKing James Version
- They that trust in their wealth, and boast themselves in the multitude of their riches;
- DRADouay–Rheims
- They that trust in their own strength, and glory in the multitude of their riches,
- ASVAmerican Standard Version
- They that trust in their wealth, And boast themselves in the multitude of their riches;
- DARBYDarby
- They depend upon their wealth, and boast themselves in the abundance of their riches. ...
- WEBThe World English Bible
- Those who trust in their wealth, and boast in the multitude of their riches—
- YLTYoung's Literal Translation
- Those trusting on their wealth, And in the multitude of their riches, Do shew themselves foolish.
- BPVBiblePics Version
- Those who trust in their wealth and boast in the abundance of their riches;
- BPVBiblePics Version
- Those who trust in their wealth and boast in the abundance of their riches;
Context: Psalms 49
4I will incline mine ear to a parable: I will open my dark saying upon the harp.
5Wherefore should I fear in the days of evil, when the iniquity of my heels shall compass me about?
6They that trust in their wealth, and boast themselves in the multitude of their riches;
7None of them can by any means redeem his brother, nor give to God a ransom for him:
8(For the redemption of their soul is precious, and it ceaseth for ever:)
About Psalms 49: The Folly of Trusting in Wealth
Psalm 49 is a poetic reminder that wealth and riches cannot save us from death. The psalmist urges everyone, from the lowly to the wealthy, to pay attention and understand the fleeting nature of life. They encourage listeners to trust in God rather than material possessions, as wealth can never truly bring eternal security.
Commentary
The psalmist begins with an attention-grabbing message: "Hear this, all peoples; give ear, all inhabitants of the world" (verse 1). They then explain that the rich and poor alike will face death (verses 6-10). The psalmist reminds us that no amount of wealth or status can prevent death, and encourages us not to fear those who seem to have more possessions (verses 16-17).The psalmist offers words of hope in the midst of this message of warning. They confidently state that God will redeem us from the power of the grave (verse 15), and that our righteousness will shine like the sun (verse 19). Moreover, they conclude by encouraging listeners to focus on what matters most: trusting in God and living a life that pleases Him.Psalm 49 serves as a sobering reminder that no amount of wealth, power, or status can offer eternal security. Our only hope is in God, who alone can redeem us from the grave and offer us true life. Let us then trust in God rather than in our possessions, for it is He who holds our future in His hands.