Psalm 82:7 - Printer Friendly

ESV: nevertheless, like men you shall die, and fall like any prince."

NIV: But you will die like mere mortals; you will fall like every other ruler."

NASB: Nevertheless you will die like men, And fall like one of the princes.'

CSB: However, you will die like humans and fall like any other ruler."

NLT: But you will die like mere mortals and fall like every other ruler.’'

KJV: But ye shall die like men, and fall like one of the princes.

NKJV: But you shall die like men, And fall like one of the princes.”

Despite high positions in government, society, or religion, even the most powerful of people will face death as certain as any other (Hebrews 9:27). This is meant to warn corrupt judges who render unjust verdicts (Psalm 82:1–4), overturning God's basic purpose for human government (Psalm 82:3–5; Proverbs 31:9; Romans 13:4). These leaders are meant to be God's representatives, reflecting His compassionate nature. Instead, some engage in corruption and evil.

Facing the Judge of judges is daunting. Scripture notes that all people sin (Romans 3:10, 23) and that the penalty for this is death: eternal separation from God (Romans 6:23). The most powerful of people is still human and will face the same criteria as all other humans in eternity (Colossians 3:25). Only those who submit to Christ have salvation (John 3:16–18); they did not earn it by their actions because no one ever could (Ephesians 2:1–10; Titus 3:5) and their sinful acts are forgiven because Jesus paid the price on the cross (1 Corinthians 6:9–11; 2 Corinthians 5:17–21; Ephesians 1:3–14).

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.

Accessed 11/25/2024 7:27:29 AM