Old Testament
Psalms 49:6
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
This verse highlights the folly of placing one's trust in wealth and material possessions.
- Author
- David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, and others
- Written
- Around 1000-500 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and worship
- Original Audience
- Worshipers of Israel
Those who trust in their wealth and boast in the multitude of their riches —
They that trust in their wealth, and boast themselves in the multitude of their riches;
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse highlights the folly of placing one's trust in wealth and material possessions. It points out that those who rely on their riches often boast about their financial status, believing it gives them security and power. However, the psalmist warns that such trust is misplaced, as wealth is temporary and cannot provide true safety or salvation. The emphasis is on the emptiness of relying solely on material wealth, suggesting that true security comes from a relationship with God rather than from riches. This verse serves as a reminder that boasting in wealth can lead to spiritual blindness, causing individuals to overlook the more important aspects of life, such as faith, humility, and reliance on God. Ultimately, it encourages readers to reflect on their values and priorities, urging them to seek lasting treasures that cannot be taken away. Explore related discernment.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Psalms 49:6 to your life
In our daily lives, we should evaluate where we place our trust. Instead of relying solely on financial security, we can focus on building our faith and relationships. This means being generous, helping others, and recognizing that true worth comes from our character and connection with God, not our bank accounts.
Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Psalms 49:6 mean?
Psalms 49:6 warns against trusting in wealth and boasting about riches. It highlights that relying on material possessions for security is misguided, as true safety comes from a relationship with God.
What is the meaning of boasting in riches in Psalms 49:6?
Boasting in riches refers to the pride and confidence people have in their financial status. The verse suggests that such pride is empty and can blind individuals to the more important aspects of life, like faith and humility.
How does Psalms 49:6 relate to materialism?
Psalms 49:6 critiques materialism by showing that trusting in wealth is foolish. It encourages readers to recognize the temporary nature of riches and to seek deeper, lasting values.
What lessons can we learn from Psalms 49:6?
From Psalms 49:6, we learn to evaluate where we place our trust. It encourages us to focus on building faith and character rather than relying solely on financial security.
The Book of Psalms
Psalm 1: Two Paths
This psalm describes two paths. The blessed person does not follow the counsel of the ungodly, does not stand in the way of sinners, and does not sit among the scornful. Instead, this person delights in the law of the LORD and thinks on it day and night.
Unlock the full Psalms summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of Psalms — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 150 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of Psalms summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.