Psalm 82:6 - Printer Friendly

ESV: I said, "You are gods, sons of the Most High, all of you;

NIV: "I said, ‘You are "gods"; you are all sons of the Most High.’

NASB: I said, 'You are gods, And all of you are sons of the Most High.

CSB: I said, "You are gods; you are all sons of the Most High.

NLT: I say, ‘You are gods; you are all children of the Most High.

KJV: I have said, Ye are gods; and all of you are children of the most High.

NKJV: I said, “You are gods, And all of you are children of the Most High.

Jesus cited this verse when defending Himself against accusations of blasphemy (John 10:33–38). His point in that exchange was that God's own Word refers to human beings using the term elohiym; how could they object if Jesus applied similar terms to Himself?

In broad terms, God appoints human rulers and judges (Romans 13:1). His intent is that they rule as His representatives, echoing His commitment to the weak and needy (Proverbs 31:9). People may not always agree with the authorities or enjoy submitting to their rule. Yet we should do so out of respect for God's sovereignty. God does not always approve of who we choose as our leaders (Hosea 8:4). Yet this is not a license for anarchy.

Nor does submission to human government mean agreeing to commit sin (Acts 5:29). But it does mean obedience when all that's violated are our own preferences.

It is also important that we pray for human authorities. First Timothy 2:1–3 carries the apostle Paul's admonition: "I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior."

The judges being condemned by Asaph (Psalm 82:1–2) have failed in their role. They have offered unfair decisions, favoring those who are evil instead of those who are innocent (Psalm 82:3–4). This cracks the cornerstones of human civilization (Psalm 82:5).

Psalm 82:6–8 begins with a statement Jesus cited when He was accused of blasphemy (John 10:33–36). Speaking from God's vantage point, the psalm warns corrupt judges that they are mere mortals. They are no more powerful than any other earthly power. If they fail to judge honestly and fairly, they will face the Judge of judges.

The Hebrew word "elohiym" is used for God as well as for generic spiritual beings and lesser rulers. In verses 1 and 6, the term is applied to mortal men. Asaph writes as if God were about to announce a verdict on human judges. These corrupt officials have failed to protect the needy and weak (Psalm 72:12–14; Proverbs 31:9). When those meant to uphold justice fail, the cornerstones of civilization are undone. The psalm ends with a direct call for the Lord to judge the earth.

Asaph was a worship leader under king David (1 Chronicles 16:4–7). In this psalm he condemns corrupt judges who fail to defend the weak and needy, which is God's intent for their role (Psalm 72:12–14; Proverbs 31:9). Jesus referred to this psalm when debating with those who accused Him of blasphemy (John 10:33–36). The Hebrew word "elohiym," like its English translation, can refer to the One True "God," or to generic "gods." In various Hebrew contexts, the word is also used for various rulers and authorities.

The book of Psalms is composed of individual songs, hymns, or poems, each of which is a ''Psalm'' in and of itself. These works contain a wide variety of themes. Some Psalms focus on praising and worshipping God. Others cry out in anguish over the pain of life. Still other Psalms look forward to the coming of the Messiah. While some Psalms are related, each has its own historical and biblical context.