Psalm 82 Bible Commentary

82:1 «A Psalm of Asaph.» God standeth in the congregation of the ^a mighty; he judgeth among the gods.

(a) The prophet shows that if princes and judges do not do their duty, God whose authority is above them will take vengeance on them.

82:2 How long will ye judge unjustly, and accept the persons of the ^b wicked? Selah.

(b) For thieves and murderers find favour in judgment when the cause of the godly cannot be heard.

82:4 Deliver the poor and ^c needy: rid [them] out of the hand of the wicked.

(c) Not only when they cry for help, but when their cause requires aid and support.

82:5 They know not, neither will they understand; they walk on in darkness: all the ^d foundations of the earth are out of course.

(d) That is, all things are out of order either by their tyranny or careless negligence.

82:7 ^e But ye shall die like men, and fall like one of the princes.

(e) No title of honour will excuse you, but you will be subject to God's judgments, and tender account as well as other men.

82:8 Arise, O God, judge the earth: for thou shalt inherit ^f all nations.

(f) Therefore no tyrant will pluck your right and authority from you.