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Psalms Chapter 82 (JPS)

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Psalms 82 – Defend the Poor and Fatherless
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1 A Psalm of Asaph. G-d standeth in the congregation of G-d; in the midst of the judges He judgeth:

2 'How long will ye judge unjustly, and respect the persons of the wicked? Selah

3 Judge the poor and fatherless; do justice to the afflicted and destitute.

4 Rescue the poor and needy; deliver them out of the hand of the wicked.

5 They know not, neither do they understand; they go about in darkness; all the foundations of the earth are moved.

6 I said: Ye are godlike beings, and all of you sons of the Most High.

7 Nevertheless ye shall die like men, and fall like one of the princes.'

8 Arise, O G-d, judge the earth; for Thou shalt possess all nations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Psalm 82 about?
God is pictured standing in the congregation of the mighty, judging among "the gods" and condemning them for judging unjustly and favoring the wicked (vv.1-2).
What does 'Ye are gods' mean in Psalm 82:6?
God tells these judges, "I have said, Ye are gods; and all of you are children of the most High" - referring to those given authority to judge, who will nonetheless "die like men" (v.7). Jesus later cites this verse in John 10:34-36.
What does Psalm 82 call God to do?
It closes with a plea, "Arise, O God, judge the earth: for thou shalt inherit all nations" (v.8), asking God to defend the poor and fatherless (v.3).

Today's Verse

And he said, Lay not thy hand upon the lad, neither do thou anything unto him. For now I know that thou fearest God, seeing thou hast not withheld thy son, thine only son, from me.

Genesis 22:12 | ASV

Verse Of The Day

Its declaration "Ye are gods" is later quoted by Jesus in John 10:34-36, even as the psalm insists these rulers will die like any other man for failing the poor and needy. Psalms 83 continues with a plea against Israel's enemies.