Psalm 49
Theme
The Folly of Trusting in Riches
Outline
1-4, Wisdom for Everyone 5-17, Don’t Fear the Rich Who Can’t Redeem 18-20, Man in His Pomp Will Not Endure
Key Verse
(49:1) Hear this, all peoples; Give ear, all inhabitants of the world
Notes
Psalm 49 calls everyone to listen, addressing the wealthy wicked who boast in their riches. The psalmist questions why he should fear them, emphasizing that no one can redeem another and that all will die. He reflects on the foolishness of the wealthy, asserting that God will redeem him. The psalm concludes with a reminder of death's finality and the futility of earthly wealth. The structure follows a chiasm.