Psalms 49:8

Render:

For too costly is the redemption of their life,

And he must let it alone for ever.

The sum to be paid by the man whose life was forfeit was to be assessed, probably in proportion to his culpability and his means: but there is no ransom which can be paid to God; it is hopeless to think of attempting it. Cp. Matthew 5:26. Theirrefers to brother, regarded generically; or, if the reading Butis adopted, to the rich men.