Tyndale Open Study NotesPsalms 49

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).

Anyone who will listen can gain wisdom (Proverbs 1:5, 8, 33).

The wisdom teacher invites everyone to come and learn wisdom. He promises to teach them through a proverb and a riddle.

The teacher used proverbs and riddles to teach wisdom (see Proverbs 1:5–6).

If enemies who live for material rewards cannot sustain themselves, how can they give life to others?

The teacher uses irony to teach wisdom. Everyone dies, and even those who give their names to lands or estates will be forgotten.

The teachers of false wisdom cannot rescue themselves from death. Only God has that power.

The wicked might have rich, luxurious lives, but they forget that they cannot avoid death.