What does Psalm 49:17 mean?
The psalmist points out that when a wicked rich person dies, he takes nothing with him (Psalm 49:10). A common proverb in English is the expression "you can't take it with you." Whatever possessions, money, and fame a person gains in their lifetime are left behind entirely when they depart for the grave.Solomon muses in Ecclesiastes 5:15: "As he came from his mother's womb he shall go again, naked as he came, and shall take nothing for his toil that he may carry away in his hand." Alexander the Great conquered numerous lands and built a name for himself when barely beyond thirty years old. But he took nothing with him into eternity. Christians cannot carry any wealth or possessions with them when they die. However, they can be good stewards of what God gives (1 Corinthians 4:2) and serve the Master faithfully. As a result, they will find rewards waiting for them in heaven (Luke 6:22–23; 1 Corinthians 9:24–25; 2 Timothy 4:7–8; Revelation 22:12).
Psalm 49:13–20 further explains what happens to wicked people who trust in money rather than in God. Sheol—death and the grave—is their destiny. Righteous people should not be jealous of them or fear them. The rich leave everything behind when they die, no different than a poor person. For a second time, the writer compares physical death to that of animals.
The "riddle" in question is the fact that some rich persons are also wicked and ungodly. Rich and poor, alike, should remember that money is temporary. It is not a substitute for God's approval. All people face death and God's judgment. There is no reason to envy a person who has earthly wealth but lacks eternal hope.
