Translations
Modern
Though in his lifetime he blesses his soul—and men praise you when you prosper—
Traditional
Though while he lived he blessed his soul: and men will praise thee, when thou doest well to thyself.
Literal
…though his soul, in his living, he blesses, and they praise you when you do well for yourself.
Latin
Quia anima ejus in vita ipsius benedicetur; confitebitur tibi cum benefeceris ei.
Original
Hebrew
English
Though in his lifetime he blesses his soul—and men praise you when you prosper—
Notes
The wicked might have rich, luxurious lives, but they forget that they cannot avoid death.
In this wisdom psalm, a wise teacher warns about enemies who live richly and care only for themselves (Psalm 49:5–9). They cannot save anyone, not even themselves, from death or being forgotten (Psalm 49:10–12). Like fattened animals, they are led to slaughter (Psalm 49:14–20).
Theme notes and profiles
Parallels
Glossary
David Korahite, Korathite Music Numbers, Book of Poor, the Psalms, Book of
Topics
Ambition: Vanity of Flattery: General Scriptures Concerning Self-Delusion: A Characteristic of the Wicked Self-Delusion: A Characteristic of Wicked People Worldliness: General Scriptures Concerning