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Psalm 62:9
Surely men of low degreeare vanity,and men of high degreeare a lie: to be laid in the balance, theyare altogetherlighter than vanity.

1 Samuel 2:7,8
The LORD maketh poor, and maketh rich: he bringeth low, and lifteth up…

Job 34:19
How much less to him that accepteth not the persons of princes, nor regardeth the rich more than the poor? for they allare the work of his hands.

rich and poor alike
The mention of "rich and poor" highlights the economic spectrum, reinforcing the idea that wealth does not determine one's value or access to divine wisdom. This is a recurring theme in Scripture, where material wealth is often contrasted with spiritual richness.Proverbs 22:2 states, "Rich and poor have this in common: The LORD is the Maker of them all," underscoring the idea that all people, regardless of their financial status, are equal before God. This also foreshadows New Testament teachings, such as inJames 2:1-9, which warns against showing favoritism based on wealth. The psalmist's message is timeless, reminding believers that true wisdom and understanding transcend earthly riches and social standing.

Psalm 49 opens with a summons: “Hear this, all you peoples; listen, all inhabitants of the world” (v. 1). Verse 2 immediately specifies who those “inhabitants” are, showing that the message is universal and authoritative. The psalmist will address the fleeting nature of wealth, the certainty of death, and the need to place trust in God rather than riches—truths that apply to everyone (cf.Isaiah 40:6-8;Romans 3:23).

“both low and high” (Psalm 49:2a)

• Social standing is irrelevant before God. Whether a person occupies a humble station or a position of influence, all are accountable to the same Creator (cf.Job 34:19;Proverbs 22:2).

• The phrase reminds us that worldly rank cannot shield anyone from the realities the psalm soon details—mortality, judgment, and the call to wisdom (cf.1 Samuel 2:7-8;Revelation 20:12).

• By addressing both “low and high,” the psalmist affirms the equal worth of every person and levels the ground at the foot of God’s throne (cf.Acts 10:34-35).

“rich and poor alike” (Psalm 49:2b)

• Earthly wealth does not purchase eternal security, nor does poverty exclude anyone from God’s salvation (cf.Luke 12:15-21;James 2:5-6).

• Rich and poor share the same ultimate destiny apart from redemption (v. 10), so the psalm calls both groups to seek wisdom that transcends material status (cf.Luke 1:52-53;1 Timothy 6:17-19).

• The pairing underscores that God’s truths are not class-specific; the gospel addresses every economic bracket equally (cf.Romans 10:12-13).

• Every human being, regardless of rank or resources, must grapple with life’s brevity and eternity’s certainty (cf.Hebrews 9:27).

• True security lies in God’s redemption, not in human standing or possessions (cf.Psalm 62:9-10;John 3:16).

• Because the invitation is universal, believers should proclaim the message indiscriminately, mirroring God’s impartial concern.

• Evaluate where you place confidence—title, influence, bank account, or the Lord who “redeems my soul from the power of Sheol” (Psalm 49:15).

• Treat people without favoritism, reflecting God’s equal invitation to “both low and high, rich and poor alike” (cf.James 2:1).

• Use resources, positions, and opportunities to point others to the wisdom found in Christ, remembering that none of those assets accompany us past the grave (cf.Matthew 6:19-21).

Psalm 49:2 underscores the universal scope of God’s message: every person—whatever the social ladder’s rung or the balance sheet’s figure—needs the same saving wisdom. Status cannot shelter us from death, and wealth cannot buy redemption. The psalmist’s call reaches everyone, inviting all to rest their hope in the Lord who offers lasting security beyond this life.

Shall be of understanding.--The copula supplied by the Authorised Version is unnecessary. The word rendered meditation may mean, from its etymology, "muttered thoughts," and it is quite consistent to say,my musings speak of understanding.So LXX. and Vulgate.