Psalm 82 -

Psalm 82 is a profound and thought-provoking passage in the Book of Psalms, offering a vivid depiction of divine judgment, human responsibility, and God’s ultimate authority. Attributed to Asaph, this psalm paints a picture of God presiding over a divine council, addressing the “gods” and calling for justice on earth. Its theological depth and poetic imagery make it a cornerstone for understanding divine justice and human accountability. This article explores the meaning, context, and significance of Psalm 82, providing a detailed analysis to enrich your understanding of this powerful scripture.

Table of Contents

Historical and Cultural Context

One of 12 psalms by Asaph—a singer and prophet during David and Solomon’s reigns (1 Chronicles 15:17-19)—addresses the moral duties of leaders. While rooted in monotheism, it reflects the Ancient Near Eastern idea of a divine council under God’s authority.

In Psalm 82, elohim refers to both God and lesser divine beings, highlighting God’s supremacy and their failures.

Text and Translation

Below is the text from the New International Version (NIV), with notes on key Hebrew terms and their significance:

Psalm 82 (NIV)
1 God presides in the great assembly;
he renders judgment among the “gods”:
2 “How long will you defend the unjust
and show partiality to the wicked? Selah
3 Defend the poor and fatherless;
do justice to the afflicted and needy.
4 Deliver the poor and needy;
rescue them from the hand of the wicked.
5 They know not, neither do they understand;
they walk about in darkness;
all the foundations of the earth are shaken.
6 I said, ‘You are gods;
you are all sons of the Most High.’
7 But you will die like mere mortals;
you will fall like every other ruler.”
8 Arise, O God, judge the earth,
for you will inherit all the nations.

Elohim:The Hebrew elohim means “God” (singular) first, then “gods” (plural).This ambiguity has sparked debate about whether the “gods” are human judges, angels, or lesser deities.
Selah: A term of uncertain meaning, possibly indicating a pause for reflection or a musical interlude.
Most High: The Hebrew Elyon underscores God’s supreme authority over all beings, divine or human.

Who Are the “Gods”

The identity of the “gods” (elohim) a central interpretive question. Scholars and theologians propose several interpretations:

Human Judges or Rulers: The most widely held view, supported by Jesus’ quotation of Psalm 82:6 in John 10:34-36, suggests that the “gods” are human judges or magistrates. These individuals, appointed to administer justice, are called “gods” because they wield God-like authority over others’ lives. Their failure to judge justly prompts God’s rebuke (Psalm 82:2-4). This interpretation aligns with passages like Exodus 21:6 and 22:8, where elohim may refer to judges acting as God’s representatives.
Angelic Beings or Divine Council Members: Some scholars see the “gods” as spiritual beings in a divine council (Job 1:6; 1 Kings 22:19-23), with Psalm 82 countering Ancient Near Eastern views by affirming Yahweh’s supremacy (Deut. 32:8-9).This view is supported by the Septuagint’s translation and some early Jewish interpretations.
Israelites at Sinai: Rabbinic tradition sees the “gods” as Israelites at Sinai, called so for their covenant with God, but judged for disobedience (e.g., golden calf).
Mythical Gods of Other Nations: Some see the “gods” as foreign deities condemned for injustice. This interpretation, however, conflicts with the monotheistic thrust of the Hebrew Bible.

The human judges view fits Psalm 82’s focus on earthly justice and mortal “gods” (v.7), but the divine council adds cosmic depth, extending God’s judgment to all powers.

Theological Themes

1. God’s Supreme Authority

The psalm opens with God standing in the “great assembly” (adat-El), asserting His unrivaled authority. Whether the “gods” are human or divine, they are subordinate to Yahweh, who alone is the ultimate Judge (Psalm 82:1, 8). This underscores the monotheistic core of Israelite faith, distinguishing it from polytheistic neighbors.

2. Justice and Compassion

God’s rebuke in verses 2-4 highlights His concern for justice, particularly for the marginalized— the poor, fatherless, afflicted, and needy. This reflects a recurring biblical mandate to protect the vulnerable (Micah 6:8; James 1:27). The gods’ failure to uphold justice shakes society’s foundations (Psalm 82:5).

3. Human Accountability

“You are gods” (Psalm 82:6) affirms rulers as God’s representatives, but “you will die like mortals” (Psalm 82:7) warns of their accountability — a call to humility and righteousness.

4. Eschatological Hope

The psalm ends with a plea for God to rule the earth, a hope fulfilled in Jesus, who cites Psalm 82:6 to affirm His divinity (John 10:34-36).

New Testament: Jesus’ Use in John 10

In John 10:34-36, Jesus cites Psalm 82:6 to defend His claim to be the Son of God. Accused of blasphemy, Jesus argues that if Scripture calls human judges “gods,” His claim of divine sonship is consistent with Old Testament theology and affirms His divinity.The reference underscores the psalm’s enduring relevance in affirming God’s delegation of authority and His ultimate judgment.

Practical Applications

For Leaders: Leaders must reflect God’s justice and compassion, prioritizing the vulnerable.
For Communities: The psalm calls believers to promote justice and protect the vulnerable.
For Individuals: The reminder of human mortality and divine accountability encourages humility and faithful stewardship of God-given roles.