Matthew Henry Commentary Psalms 49:1-5

"Hear this, all ye peoples; Give ear, all ye inhabitants of the world, Both low and high, Rich and poor together. My mouth shall speak wisdom; And the meditation of my heart shall be of understanding. I will incline mine ear to a parable: I will open my dark saying upon the harp. Wherefore should I fear in the days of evil, When iniquity at my heels compasseth me about?" — Psalms 49:1-5 (ASV)

We seldom encounter a more solemn introduction: there is no truth of greater importance. Let all hear this, applying it to ourselves. The poor are in danger from an undue desire for the world's wealth, just as rich people are from an undue delight in it.

The psalmist begins by applying it to himself, and that is the right method for discussing divine matters. Before he describes the folly of carnal security, he first presents, from his own experience, the benefit and comfort of a holy, gracious security, which those who trust in God, and not in their worldly wealth, enjoy.

In the day of judgment, the iniquity of our heels—that is, of our steps, our past sins—will surround us. In those days, worldly, wicked people will be afraid; but why should a person who has God with them fear death?