Psalms 49:1-9 ▼

1 To the Chief Musician. A Psalm of the sons of Korah. Hear this, all peoples; Listen carefully, all inhabitants of the world,

2 Both low and high, Rich and poor together:

3 My mouth will speak wisdom, And the meditation of my heart will be understanding.

4 I will incline my ear and consent to a proverb; On the lyre I will unfold my riddle.

5 Why should I fear in the days of evil, When the wickedness of those who would betray me surrounds me [on every side],

6 Even those who trust in and rely on their wealth And boast of the abundance of their riches?

7 None of them can by any means redeem [either himself or] his brother, Nor give to God a ransom for him—

8 For the ransom of his soul is too costly, And he should cease trying forever—

9 So that he should live on eternally, That he should never see the pit (grave) and undergo decay.