Psalms 82:1

KJV

¶ A Psalm of Asaph. God standeth in the congregation of the mighty; he judgeth among the gods.

KJV (with Strong's)

A Psalm {H4210} of Asaph {H623}. God {H430} standeth {H5324}{H8737)} in the congregation {H5712} of the mighty {H410}; he judgeth {H8199}{H8799)} among {H7130} the gods {H430}.

Complete Jewish Bible

A psalm of Asaf: Elohim [God] stands in the divine assembly; there with the elohim [judges], he judges:

Berean Standard Bible

God presides in the divine assembly; He renders judgment among the gods:

American Standard Version

God standeth in the congregation of God; He judgeth among the gods.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalms 82:1, a profound psalm attributed to Asaph, immediately establishes a dramatic scene of divine intervention and judgment. It portrays God Himself entering the assembly of powerful earthly rulers and judges, not as a silent observer, but as the supreme and ultimate Judge. This verse sets the stage for a divine audit of human authority, asserting God's absolute sovereignty over all earthly powers and introducing the critical theme of their accountability for the justice (or injustice) they administer.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalms 82 is part of Book Three of the Psalter (Psalms 73-89), a collection often characterized by theological reflection, lament, and a focus on God's justice and covenant faithfulness amidst national and individual struggles. This specific psalm is an Asaphic psalm, known for their didactic and prophetic tone. Psalms 82:1 sets the scene for the divine indictment that follows in verses 2-4, where God explicitly charges these "gods" with failing to uphold justice for the poor, the fatherless, and the afflicted. Verses 5-7 then pronounce their ultimate judgment and downfall, culminating in a plea for God to rise and judge the earth in verse 8. The psalm functions as a powerful prophetic oracle, exposing corruption and affirming God's ultimate reign.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The ancient Near East (ANE) often featured concepts of divine councils where gods deliberated. While some interpretations of Psalms 82:1 lean towards a heavenly council, the overwhelming contextual evidence, especially from the subsequent verses, points to human rulers and judges. In ancient Israel, those appointed to positions of judicial authority were considered God's representatives, acting in His stead. They were entrusted with administering God's law and upholding His righteousness. The Hebrew term `elohim` (translated "God" and "gods" in this verse) is flexible; while most often referring to the one true God, it can also denote angelic beings or, significantly, human authorities who held divinely delegated power, as seen in [Exodus 21:6](/exodus/21-6 "Exodus 21:6 - Judges as 'Gods'") and [Exodus 22:8-9](/exodus/22-8 "Exodus 22:8-9 - Cases Brought Before 'Gods'"). This understanding is crucial for interpreting the "gods" as human magistrates.
* **Key Themes:** This verse introduces several foundational themes that resonate throughout the psalm and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it powerfully asserts **Divine Sovereignty in Judgment**, emphasizing that no earthly power, however mighty, operates outside of God's ultimate authority and scrutiny. He is the supreme Judge over all. Secondly, it highlights the **Accountability of Rulers**, reminding those in positions of power—kings, judges, magistrates—that their authority is delegated by God, and they will be held responsible for how they wield it, particularly in dispensing justice. This theme is echoed in many prophetic books, such as [Isaiah 10:1-4](/isaiah/10-1 "Isaiah 10:1-4 - Woe to Unjust Rulers"). Finally, the verse implicitly sets the stage for the theme of **Justice for the Vulnerable**. While not explicitly stated in verse 1, the subsequent verses make it clear that God's primary concern in this judgment is the failure of these "gods" to defend the poor, the fatherless, and the oppressed, a recurring theme throughout the Law and Prophets (e.g., [Deuteronomy 24:17](/deuteronomy/24-17 "Deuteronomy 24:17 - Justice for the Sojourner, Fatherless, and Widow")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **God (Hebrew, _'Elohim'_):** The first instance of `elohim` in the verse refers unequivocally to the one true God, the sovereign Lord of the universe. This majestic plural noun emphasizes His supreme power, authority, and divine nature. His presence in the "congregation" signifies His ultimate jurisdiction over all earthly affairs.
* **Judgeth (Hebrew, _shaphat'_):** This verb encompasses more than just rendering a verdict; it means to govern, to rule, to administer justice, and to set things right. When God "judgeth," He is actively intervening to establish righteousness, correct wrongs, and hold accountable those who pervert justice. It speaks to His active involvement in the moral order of creation.
* **Gods (Hebrew, _'elohim'_):** The second instance of `elohim` is the same Hebrew word but used in a plural context to refer to human judges, rulers, or magistrates. This usage highlights their divinely appointed role as representatives of God's authority on earth. They are "gods" in the sense that they are meant to embody God's justice and righteousness in their judicial functions, not that they are divine in nature. This interpretation is crucial for understanding the psalm's critique of human corruption.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"¶ A Psalm of Asaph.":** This superscription identifies the psalm as belonging to the collection attributed to Asaph, one of King David's chief musicians and seers. Asaphic psalms often contain strong theological statements, historical reflections, and prophetic warnings, setting the tone for the profound message that follows.
* **"God standeth in the congregation of the mighty;":** This clause dramatically establishes the setting. "God" (the one true `Elohim`) is depicted as taking His place in an assembly. The "congregation of the mighty" (Hebrew: `‘edah ’el`) refers to an assembly of powerful individuals, specifically human rulers, judges, or magistrates. The imagery is that of a divine courtroom, where God Himself presides over those who are meant to administer justice on His behalf. His "standing" implies active engagement, readiness to act, and an authoritative posture.
* **"he judgeth among the gods.":** This second clause specifies God's action within this assembly. He is not merely observing but actively "judging" (administering justice, holding accountable) these "gods" (the human authorities who have failed in their divinely appointed duties). This statement underscores God's ultimate authority and the accountability of all human power to Him. It foreshadows the indictment and condemnation of these corrupt rulers that follow in the subsequent verses of the psalm.

#### Literary Devices
Psalms 82:1 masterfully employs several literary devices to convey its powerful message. **Anthropomorphism** is evident in the depiction of God "standing" and "judging" as if He were a human magistrate in a courtroom. This device makes the abstract concept of divine judgment tangible and relatable to human experience. The phrase "congregation of the mighty" and the term "gods" function as **metaphors** or **symbols** for human rulers and judges who wield significant power and are entrusted with administering justice. The entire scene is framed as a **dramatic tableau**, setting a powerful and immediate visual for the reader: the ultimate Judge entering the very courtrooms where justice has been perverted. There is also an element of **irony** at play: those who are called "gods" because they are meant to embody divine justice are themselves judged by the true God for their failure to do so, highlighting their profound dereliction of duty.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalms 82:1 lays a foundational theological truth: God is the supreme and ultimate authority over all earthly powers. It asserts His universal jurisdiction, reminding humanity that no ruler, no government, and no judicial system operates outside of His divine oversight. This verse underscores the biblical principle that all authority is delegated by God, and therefore, all who wield power are ultimately accountable to Him for how they exercise it. It connects deeply with the prophetic tradition's consistent call for justice and righteousness, particularly for the marginalized and vulnerable, and serves as a divine warning against corruption and the perversion of justice by those in authority.

* [Deuteronomy 1:16-17](/deuteronomy/1-16 "Deuteronomy 1:16-17 - Instructions for Judges")
* [Proverbs 21:3](/proverbs/21-3 "Proverbs 21:3 - To Do Justice and Judgment is More Acceptable to the Lord Than Sacrifice")
* [Romans 13:1-2](/romans/13-1 "Romans 13:1-2 - Submission to Governing Authorities")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Psalms 82:1 offers profound implications for believers today, serving as both a source of hope and a sober challenge. For those who suffer under unjust systems, corrupt leadership, or societal inequities, this verse provides immense reassurance: God sees. He is not distant or unaware of the perversion of justice in the world. He is actively present, standing ready to judge those who oppress and to defend the vulnerable. This truth can be a powerful anchor in times of despair, reminding us that ultimate justice will prevail. Conversely, for anyone in a position of leadership, power, or influence—whether in government, business, the church, or even within a family—this psalm serves as a solemn warning. All authority is ultimately derived from God, and all will be judged by Him for how it was wielded. This calls us to a posture of humility, integrity, and a relentless pursuit of righteousness in our spheres of influence. We are called not only to pray for our leaders but also to actively advocate for justice, knowing that our efforts align with God's own heart and His ultimate plan for the world.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the truth of God's judgment over earthly rulers impact your perspective on current events or political systems?**
* **In what ways might we, even in our personal lives, be tempted to "judge among the gods" (i.e., exercise authority without accountability to God)?**
* **What practical steps can you take to advocate for justice and uphold righteousness in your community or sphere of influence, knowing that God stands as the ultimate Judge?**

### FAQ
**Who are the "gods" in Psalms 82:1?**

Answer: The "gods" (`elohim` in Hebrew) in Psalms 82:1 primarily refer to human judges, rulers, and magistrates who were divinely appointed to administer justice in ancient Israel. While the term `elohim` can refer to the one true God or even angelic beings, the context of Psalms 82 (especially verses 2-4, which detail their failures to uphold justice for the poor and needy) strongly indicates human authorities. Jesus Himself validates this interpretation in [John 10:34-35](/john/10-34 "John 10:34-35 - Jesus' Reference to 'Ye Are Gods'"), where He quotes this psalm to demonstrate that the Scriptures refer to human beings as "gods" because "the word of God came" to them, meaning they were entrusted with God's law and authority. This usage highlights their divinely delegated *position* and *responsibility*, not their inherent divine nature.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalms 82:1 finds its ultimate and perfect fulfillment in Jesus Christ. He is the true God who stands in the congregation of all humanity, not merely to judge, but to perfectly embody and enact divine justice. While earthly "gods" (human rulers) fail to judge righteously and oppress the vulnerable, Jesus, as the [Son of Man](/daniel/7-13 "Daniel 7:13 - Son of Man Coming with Clouds"), is the one to whom all judgment has been committed by the Father ([John 5:22](/john/5-22 "John 5:22 - The Father Has Committed All Judgment to the Son")). He is the righteous King who establishes a kingdom where justice truly flows like a river ([Amos 5:24](/amos/5-24 "Amos 5:24 - Let Justice Roll Down")). His first coming inaugurated His judgment, exposing the spiritual bankruptcy of the world's systems and the hypocrisy of its leaders. Through His life, death, and resurrection, He disarmed the principalities and powers ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Disarming Principalities and Powers")), demonstrating His supreme authority over all earthly and spiritual "gods." Ultimately, He is the [King of kings and Lord of lords](/revelation/19-16 "Revelation 19:16 - King of Kings and Lord of Lords"), and at His second coming, every knee will bow and every tongue confess His supreme Lordship ([Philippians 2:9-11](/phil/2-9 "Philippians 2:9-11 - Every Knee Shall Bow")), fulfilling the psalm's plea for God to rise and judge the earth.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

John 10:35

If he called them gods, unto whom the word of God came, and the scripture cannot be broken;

2 Chronicles 19:6

And said to the judges, Take heed what ye do: for ye judge not for man, but for the LORD, who [is] with you in the judgment.

2 Chronicles 19:7

Wherefore now let the fear of the LORD be upon you; take heed and do [it]: for [there is] no iniquity with the LORD our God, nor respect of persons, nor taking of gifts.

Psalms 82:6

¶ I have said, Ye [are] gods; and all of you [are] children of the most High.

Psalms 82:7

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

Isaiah 3:13

The LORD standeth up to plead, and standeth to judge the people.

Psalms 58:11

So that a man shall say, Verily [there is] a reward for the righteous: verily he is a God that judgeth in the earth.