תהלים, פרק קמ״ו, פסוק ד׳

Human life is fundamentally fragile and temporary, making any absolute reliance on flesh and blood a guaranteed path to disappointment. Even the strongest and most reliable individuals are ultimately subject to death, an inescapable reality that instantly severs all their plans and promises. The life force that dwells within the human heart [אבן עזרא] can depart suddenly, and when it does, the individual has absolutely no control over its exit [רד״ק]. Immediately following this departure, the physical body, built upon a foundation of bones that share the nature of dust [אבן עזרא], returns to the earth from which it was originally formed [מצודת דוד] to be buried in the grave [ביאור שטיינזלץ].

The primary approach among commentators is that at the exact moment of death, all of a person's thoughts and future plans completely perish. This utter lack of control over one's own spirit is the central reason why mortals cannot be relied upon for salvation. If a person cannot save himself from death or from his own enemies, he certainly lacks the power to save anyone else [מאירי]. People naturally spend their days mapping out the future, but even a deeply trustworthy individual who always keeps his word will eventually die, leaving his well-laid plans unfulfilled and cut short [רד״ק, מצודת דוד, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Consequently, true trust must be anchored in the eternal rather than in a fleeting creature [מלבי״ם].

From another perspective, this reality serves as a sharp criticism of human nature, particularly among the wealthy. People often forget their own mortality, sinking into vain ambitions like building grand palaces while neglecting to give charity or draw close to God. It is only at the very end, at the brink of death, that these worldly desires and material thoughts finally fade away [אלשיך]. However, the warning against placing trust in humans applies specifically to seeking material salvation. It does not forbid relying on pious and wise individuals, because their very purpose is to guide others and teach them how to place their ultimate trust in God [מאירי].