Psalm 82 - Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible

82:1

Psalm 82:1-8. Before the great Judge, the judges of the earth are rebuked, exhorted, and threatened.

congregation — (Compare Exodus 12:3; Exodus 16:1).

of the mighty — that is, of God, of His appointment.

the gods — or, “judges” (Exodus 21:6; Exodus 22:9), God‘s representatives.

82:2

accept the persons — literally, “lift up the faces,” that is, from dejection, or admit to favor and communion, regardless of merit (Leviticus 19:15; Proverbs 18:5).

82:3-4

So must good judges act (Psalm 10:14; Job 29:12).

82:4

poor and needy — (Compare Psalm 34:10; Psalm 41:1).

82:5

By the willful ignorance and negligence of judges, anarchy ensues (Psalm 11:3; Psalm 75:3).

out of course — (Compare Margin; Psalm 9:6; Psalm 62:2).

82:6-7

Though God admitted their official dignity (John 10:34), He reminds them of their mortality.

82:7

fall like, etc. — be cut off suddenly (Psalm 20:8; Psalm 91:7).

82:8

As rightful sovereign of earth, God is invoked personally to correct the evils of His representatives.