King James Version
What Does Psalms 49:8 Mean?
“(For the redemption of their soul is precious, and it ceaseth for ever:)”
Context
6
They that trust in their wealth, and boast themselves in the multitude of their riches;
7
None of them can by any means redeem his brother, nor give to God a ransom for him:
8
(For the redemption of their soul is precious, and it ceaseth for ever:)
9
That he should still live for ever, and not see corruption.
10
For he seeth that wise men die, likewise the fool and the brutish person perish, and leave their wealth to others.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(8) **For.**—This verse is rightly placed in a parenthesis. “Soul” is the animal life, as generally, and here necessarily from the context. There is no anticipation of the Christian scheme of redemption from sin. A ransom which could buy a man from death, as one redeems a debtor or prisoner, would be beyond the means of the wealthiest, even if nature allowed such a bargain.
**It ceaseth for ever.**—This is obscure. It may mean, either *the ransom utterly fails, *or *the life utterly perishes, *and so cannot be ransomed. Or, as in the Prayer Book version, the verb may be taken transitively, “he lets that alone for ever.” The first of these is the simplest, and most agreeable to the context.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Psalms. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Psalms 49:8 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Psalms 49:8
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge