A Psalm of Asaph

“God takes His stand in the divine assembly;
He judges in the midst of the gods.”

“How long will you judge unjustly
And show partiality to the wicked?” — Selah

“Vindicate the weak and fatherless;
Do justice to the afflicted and destitute.
Rescue the weak and needy;
Save them from the hand of the wicked.”

The Failure of Earthly Rulers

“They do not know nor do they understand;
They walk about in darkness;
All the foundations of the earth are shaken.”

“I said, ‘You are gods,
And all of you are sons of the Most High.
Nevertheless you will die like men,
And fall like one of the princes.’”

A Final Cry for Justice

“Arise, God, judge the earth!
For You possess all the nations.”

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Context and Meaning

Psalm 82 is a powerful rebuke directed toward earthly rulers, or possibly spiritual authorities, referred to as “gods” (Hebrew: elohim). These figures are appointed to govern with justice but have failed to defend the weak and uphold righteousness.

The psalm opens with a striking image: God standing in judgment over other judges. He charges them with corruption and partiality, reminds them of their mortality, and ends with a prayer for God Himself to take the reins of global justice.

Key Themes:

1. God Holds Authority Over All Authorities: Even those in power will be held accountable (v. 1).
2. Justice Is God’s Standard: The measure of leadership is how well it protects the vulnerable (v. 2–4).
3. Corruption Shakes Society: Injustice leads to disorder at every level (v. 5).
4. Power Is Temporary: Earthly rulers are called “gods” but are still mortal and accountable (v. 6–7).
5. God Is the Ultimate Judge: The psalm ends with the psalmist calling on God to intervene directly (v. 8).

Reflection and Impact

Psalm 82 reminds us that justice is sacred, and those who wield power are stewards, not sovereigns:

• God Sees the Injustice of the Powerful: No leader, judge, or ruler escapes His sight (Romans 13:1–4).
• True Justice Mirrors God’s Heart: Defending the poor and oppressed is at the center of biblical righteousness (Micah 6:8).
• Human Power Is Not Ultimate: No matter how high someone rises, they will answer to God.
• We Are Called to Reflect God’s Justice: As image-bearers and ambassadors of His kingdom, our lives should defend the vulnerable (Isaiah 1:17).

Application

• Pray for Leaders and Judges: Intercede for those in authority to govern with wisdom, equity, and truth.
• Practice Justice Personally: Seek ways to stand with the oppressed, speak up for the voiceless, and live with kingdom ethics.
• Remember God’s Judgment Is Sure: Let this psalm comfort you when you see injustice—God will arise.
• Plead for God’s Rule to Be Established: Just like the psalmist, pray: “Arise, O God, judge the earth.”

Closing Thought

Psalm 82 calls for justice not only in the courts but in our lives. As we wait for God’s perfect rule, we live as agents of His mercy and righteousness.
“Vindicate the weak and fatherless… Arise, O God, judge the earth!”