8 the ransom for a life is costly, no payment is ever enough-

Other Translations of Psalm 49:8

King James Version

8 (For the redemption of their soul is precious, and it ceaseth for ever:)

English Standard Version

8 for the ransom of their life is costly and can never suffice,

The Message

8 The cost of rescue is beyond our means, and even then it doesn't guarantee

New King James Version

8 For the redemption of their souls is costly, And it shall cease forever--

New Living Translation

8 Redemption does not come so easily, for no one can ever pay enough

Matthew Henry's Commentary on Psalm 49:8

Commentary on Psalm 49:6-14

(Read Psalm 49:6-14)

Here is a description of the spirit and way of worldly people. A man may have wealth, and may have his heart enlarged in love, thankfulness, and obedience, and may do good with it. Therefore it is not men's having riches that proves them to be worldly, but their setting their hearts upon them as the best things. Worldly men have only some floating thoughts of the things of God, while their fixed thoughts, their inward thoughts, are about the world; that lies nearest the heart. But with all their wealth they cannot save the life of the dearest friend they have. This looks further, to the eternal redemption to be wrought out by the Messiah. The redemption of the soul shall cost very dear; but, being once wrought, it shall never need to be repeated. And he, the Redeemer, shall rise again before he sees corruption, and then shall live for evermore, Daniel 12:2. Let us now judge of things as they will appear in that day. The beauty of holiness is that alone which the grave cannot touch, or damage.