Psalms 49:2
Both low and high, rich and poor, together.
Original Language Analysis
גַּם
H1571
גַּם
Strong's:
H1571
Word #:
1 of 9
properly, assemblage; used only adverbially also, even, yea, though; often repeated as correl. both...and
בְּנֵי
Both low
H1121
בְּנֵי
Both low
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
2 of 9
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
אָ֭דָם
H120
אָ֭דָם
Strong's:
H120
Word #:
3 of 9
ruddy i.e., a human being (an individual or the species, mankind, etc.)
גַּם
H1571
גַּם
Strong's:
H1571
Word #:
4 of 9
properly, assemblage; used only adverbially also, even, yea, though; often repeated as correl. both...and
בְּנֵי
Both low
H1121
בְּנֵי
Both low
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
5 of 9
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
אִ֑ישׁ
H376
אִ֑ישׁ
Strong's:
H376
Word #:
6 of 9
a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)
Cross References
Psalms 62:9Surely men of low degree are vanity, and men of high degree are a lie: to be laid in the balance, they are altogether lighter than vanity.Proverbs 22:2The rich and poor meet together: the LORD is the maker of them all.Job 34:19How much less to him that accepteth not the persons of princes, nor regardeth the rich more than the poor? for they all are the work of his hands.
Historical Context
Ancient societies were highly stratified, with wealth determining status and opportunity. This verse's leveling address challenged social pretensions by insisting all face the same ultimate realities.
Questions for Reflection
- Why is it significant that low and high, rich and poor are addressed 'together'?
- How does mortality equalize what life's circumstances distinguish?
Analysis & Commentary
Both 'low and high, rich and poor, together' are summoned to hear. The wisdom offered applies across all social distinctions. Wealth and status cannot exempt anyone from the realities the psalm addresses. Death and judgment are great equalizers before which all human distinctions fade.