Surely men of low degree [are] vanity, [and] men of high degree [are] a lie: to be laid in the balance, they [are] altogether [lighter] than vanity.

Ver. 9. Surely men of low degree are vanity] Man is a depending creature, and, like the vine, must have somewhat to lean upon; apt he is to leave God, and cleave to the creature, to make either men or means his refuge; David therefore dehorteth from both, in this and the next verse showing that men of what degree soever are in nowise to be confided in. The word rendered vanity denoteth a vain light thing, such as is the breath of one's mouth or a bubble on the water

Men of high degree are a lie] There is no more truth nor assurance in them than in a false tale; also they frustrate men's hopes, as a barren fruit tree, Hebrews 3:17 .

They are altogether, lighter,. &c.] Put all mankind into one bundle, into one balance, and vanity into the ether, and it will weigh them down, Ut ascendant ipsi prae vanitate simul.

Continues after advertising
Continues after advertising