Old Testament
Psalms 49:17
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for when he dies he shall carry nothing away; his glory shall not descend after him.
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For when he dieth he shall carry nothing away: his glory shall not descend after him.
What Psalms 49:17 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse emphasizes the inevitability of death and the futility of material wealth. It reminds us that when a person dies, they cannot take their possessions or status with them. The 'glory' that one may have enjoyed in life, such as fame or riches, does not follow them into the afterlife. This serves as a sobering reminder that earthly achievements and wealth are temporary and ultimately meaningless in the face of death. The focus should be on what truly matters in life, which is often spiritual and relational rather than material. The verse encourages readers to reflect on their priorities and consider the lasting impact of their lives beyond material success.
How to apply Psalms 49:17 to your life
This verse challenges us to evaluate our lives and what we value most. Instead of chasing after wealth and status, we should invest in relationships and spiritual growth. By focusing on what truly matters, we can lead more fulfilling lives that leave a lasting legacy beyond material possessions.
Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary
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Photo: U.S. Army photo by Spc. Samantha R. Ciaramitaro, via DVIDS and Wikimedia Commons. License: Public domain in the United States — U.S. federal-government work. Source. Location: Great Ziggurat, Ur Archaeological City (Tell el-Mukayyar), Dhi Qar Governorate, Iraq. Resized for the web.
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At a Glance — the Book of Psalms
- Author
- David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, and others
- Written
- Around 1000-500 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and worship
- Original Audience
- Worshipers of Israel
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Psalms 49:17 mean?
Psalms 49:17 highlights that when a person dies, they cannot take their wealth or status with them. It serves as a reminder that material possessions are temporary and do not carry over into the afterlife.
What is the meaning of 'his glory shall not descend after him' in Psalms 49:17?
The phrase 'his glory shall not descend after him' means that any fame or success a person has in life does not follow them after death. It emphasizes the idea that earthly achievements are fleeting and ultimately meaningless.
How can Psalms 49:17 apply to my life?
Psalms 49:17 encourages you to evaluate what you value most in life. Instead of focusing solely on wealth and status, it suggests investing in relationships and spiritual growth for a more fulfilling life.
What themes are present in Psalms 49:17?
The main themes in Psalms 49:17 include mortality, the futility of riches, the temporary nature of wealth, and the importance of focusing on spiritual and relational aspects of life.
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