- Unlike the Psalms which have preceded it, to whom is this particular Psalm addressed?
- What might be the difference between “B’ney Adam” and “B’ney Ish”? Could the first be a reference to Abraham and his descendants (see Joshua 14) and “Ish” a reference to Noah (Genesis 6)?
- In any event, Psalms 49:3 would be in the category of a “merism” which is meant to be all-inclusive (as for example, “from head to toe”) — and in this case who or what is included?
- Do Psalms 49:4-5 relate to “wisdom literature” (as for example, the language of Kohelet or Mishley)?
- With reference to “heart” (Psalms 49:4) does this affirm the notion of the ancients that the heart was the seat of thought?
- What is the essential question which is posited in this Psalm (Psalms 49:6)?
- Would wealth seem to be the essential reliant?
- Having indicated what “does not provide for protection”, what is the Psalmist’s view as expressed in Psalms 49:16?
- And, as to wealth, what is the Psalmist’s view in Psalms 49:17-18?
- Do Psalms 49:19-21 indicate that the Psalmist has the view that, following death, man and (other forms of) animals are essentially the same (especially Psalms 49:21)?
