Psalms 49:12

Authorized King James Version

Nevertheless man being in honour abideth not: he is like the beasts that perish.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וְאָדָ֣ם

H120

Nevertheless man

ruddy i.e., a human being (an individual or the species, mankind, etc.)

בִּ֭יקָר

H3366

being in honour

value, i.e., (concretely) wealth; abstractly, costliness, dignity

בַּל

H1077

properly, a failure; by implication nothing; usually (adverb) not at all; also lest

יָלִ֑ין

H3885

abideth

to stop (usually over night); by implication, to stay permanently; hence (in a bad sense) to be obstinate (especially in words, to complain)

נִמְשַׁ֖ל

H4911

not he is like

to liken, i.e., (transitively) to use figurative language (an allegory, adage, song or the like); intransitively, to resemble

כַּבְּהֵמ֣וֹת

H929

the beasts

properly, a dumb beast; especially any large quadruped or animal (often collective)

נִדְמֽוּ׃

H1820

that perish

to be dumb or silent; hence, to fail or perish; trans. to destroy

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights worship and praise through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Psalms.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of ancient Near Eastern poetry and hymnic literature for worship shapes this text's meaning. Israel's liturgical traditions developed through centuries of temple worship and personal devotion Understanding a worldview centered on covenant relationship between God and His people helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address questions about God's character and purposes in the modern world, and how should the church respond?
How does the worship and praise theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?