The Psalms of David ‎#I.XXIV

I.XXIV. In vain the wealthy Mortals toil

1 In vain the wealthy Mortals toil,
And heap their shining Dust in vain,
Look down and scorn the humble Poor,
And boast their lofty Hills of Gain.

2 Their golden Cordials cannot ease
Their pained Hearts or aching Heads,
Nor fright, nor bribe approaching Death
From glitt'ring Roofs and downy Beds.

3 The ling'ring, the unwilling Soul,
The dismal Summons must obey,
And bid a long, a sad Farewel,
To the pale Lump of lifeless Clay.

4 Thence they are huddled to the Grave,
Where Kings and Slaves have equal Thrones;
Their Bones without Distinction lie
Amongst the Heap of meaner Bones.

Text Information

• First Line: In vain the wealthy Mortals toil
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1766
• Scripture:
  Psalm 49:6
  ;
  Psalm 49:9
  ;
  Ecclesiastes 8:8
  ;
  Job 3:14-15
• Topic: Covetousness; Death of a Sinner; Rich sinner dying

Tune Information

(No tune information)