Psalms 82:7

KJV

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

KJV (with Strong's)

But {H403} ye shall die {H4191}{H8799)} like men {H120}, and fall {H5307}{H8799)} like one {H259} of the princes {H8269}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Nevertheless, you will die like mortals; like any prince, you will fall.'"

Berean Standard Bible

But like mortals you will die, and like rulers you will fall.”

American Standard Version

Nevertheless ye shall die like men, And fall like one of the princes.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalms 82:7 serves as a stark and unyielding divine pronouncement of judgment against those in positions of earthly power who have failed to administer justice with righteousness and integrity. Despite their elevated status, even being metaphorically referred to as "gods" in the preceding verse, these human rulers are confronted with the inescapable reality of their inherent mortality and the certainty of their demise, underscoring that all human authority is temporal and ultimately accountable to the supreme, righteous Judge of all the earth.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalms 82:7 functions as the climactic and most severe declaration of judgment within a psalm that vividly portrays God presiding over a "divine council." The psalm commences with God taking His rightful place within this assembly, immediately issuing a scathing rebuke to its members for their egregious failures: their unjust rule, their blatant partiality toward the wicked, and their profound neglect of the poor, the fatherless, and the oppressed ([Psalms 82:1-4](/psalms/82-1-4 "Psalms 82:1-4 - God's Indictment of Unjust Rulers")). Verse 6, "I said, 'You are gods, sons of the Most High, all of you,'" acknowledges a divinely delegated authority or a high societal standing, yet this acknowledgment is immediately and dramatically juxtaposed with the severe pronouncement of verse 7. This abrupt shift from a statement of elevated status to a declaration of inevitable mortality strips away any illusion of divine immunity or eternal reign, forcefully emphasizing the gravity of their moral failures and the certainty of their impending judgment. The psalm concludes with a fervent plea for God Himself to rise and judge the earth, affirming His ultimate sovereignty over all nations ([Psalms 82:8](/psalms/82-8 "Psalms 82:8 - A Plea for God's Universal Judgment")).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The concept of a " divine council" has echoes in ancient Near Eastern mythologies, where pantheons of deities would convene. However, within the strict monotheistic framework of Israelite theology, the "gods" (*ʾĕlōhîm*) in Psalms 82 are predominantly understood by scholars to refer to human judges, kings, or powerful magistrates. These individuals were seen as God's earthly representatives, entrusted with the sacred duty of upholding divine justice and law. In ancient Israel, the proper administration of justice was paramount, viewed as a direct reflection of God's character. Rulers and judges derived their authority from God, making their corruption or failure to protect the vulnerable not merely a social injustice but a direct affront to the divine order. The cultural expectation was that justice would emanate from the highest echelons of society, and the failure of these earthly authorities to fulfill their sacred trust inevitably invited divine wrath. The geographical setting of this judgment is universal, as God's authority and judgment extend over all who wield power, regardless of their specific locale or kingdom.
* **Key Themes:** Psalms 82:7 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes woven throughout the Psalms and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it emphatically asserts **Divine Sovereignty and Ultimate Authority**, proclaiming that no earthly power, however exalted or seemingly untouchable, lies beyond God's reach or ultimate judgment. God is unequivocally presented as the supreme and righteous Judge of all creation ([Psalms 7:8](/psalms/7-8 "Psalms 7:8 - God Judges the Peoples")). Secondly, it highlights the crucial theme of the **Accountability of Rulers**, serving as a potent reminder to those in leadership that their power is a sacred stewardship, not an inherent right. They will be held to account for how they exercise this power, particularly concerning their commitment to justice and righteousness ([Proverbs 14:34](/proverbs/14-34 "Proverbs 14:34 - Righteousness Exalts a Nation")). Thirdly, the verse underscores the universal **Mortality of Humanity**, even for those vested with immense power. Despite being referred to as "gods" in a metaphorical or titular sense, they remain fundamentally *ʾādām* (men), subject to death like all mortals. This theme serves as a profound humbling reminder of the transient nature of all earthly glory, authority, and power. Finally, it reinforces God's unwavering commitment to **Justice for the Oppressed**, offering a profound source of hope and assurance to those suffering under corrupt or oppressive leadership that God sees their plight and will ultimately intervene to rectify all wrongs ([Psalms 10:14](/psalms/10-14 "Psalms 10:14 - God Sees Injustice")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **die (Hebrew, _mûwth'_):** This primitive root signifies the cessation of life, emphasizing the universal and inescapable fate of all living beings, including those who hold great power. In this context, it serves to strip away any pretense of immortality or divine immunity that the "gods" of verse 6 might have assumed. By asserting their common humanity and vulnerability to death, it underscores the ultimate limitation and temporality of their earthly authority, reminding them that their reign is finite and subject to a higher power.
* **men (Hebrew, _ʼâdâm'_):** This term refers to humanity in general, often used to emphasize commonality, frailty, and the created nature of human beings. The contrast with *ʾĕlōhîm* ("gods") in the preceding verse is stark and intentional. While these rulers were granted a status that might evoke divinity, they are fundamentally *ʼādâm*, mortal beings who share the same biological destiny as every other person. This word serves to profoundly humble and demystify their elevated position, asserting their inherent creatureliness before God.
* **princes (Hebrew, _sar'_)::** This noun denotes high-ranking officials, nobles, or rulers. The phrase "fall like one of the princes" suggests a public, ignominious downfall, not merely a quiet passing. It implies a loss of power, dignity, and authority, often as a direct consequence of their unrighteous actions and abuse of their entrusted office. It highlights that even the most esteemed and powerful figures are subject to the same divine judgment and eventual demise as any other human, and their fall can be particularly dramatic and public due to their prominence.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But ye shall die like men":** This clause delivers a powerful, direct, and confrontational rebuke. The adversative conjunction "But" introduces a sharp and jarring contrast to the elevated, quasi-divine status implied in verse 6. Despite being called "gods" or "sons of the Most High," the psalmist declares their inevitable, universal mortality. They are not immortal divine beings but *ʼādām*, common humanity, subject to the same biological end as everyone else. This statement serves to forcefully strip away any illusion of invincibility, special exemption from death, or inherent divine nature due to their position, asserting God's absolute and ultimate authority over life and death for all.
* **"and fall like one of the princes":** Building upon the preceding declaration of mortality, this clause specifies the manner and consequence of their demise. To "fall" implies a loss of position, power, and prestige, often associated with a public disgrace, overthrow, or catastrophic failure. The comparison to "one of the princes" suggests that even those of the highest earthly rank are not immune to such a downfall. It implies that their death will not be a peaceful retirement but a punitive consequence of their unjust rule, resulting in a profound loss of their elevated status and authority, mirroring the fate of other powerful but ultimately fallen human leaders. This phrase underscores the punitive and public aspect of their divine judgment.

#### Literary Devices
Psalms 82:7 masterfully employs several potent literary devices to convey its message of divine judgment and the transient nature of earthly power. The most prominent device is **Contrast**, which is central to the psalm's entire argument. The verse directly contrasts the elevated, quasi-divine status ("gods," "sons of the Most High") attributed to the rulers in [Psalms 82:6](/psalms/82-6 "Psalms 82:6 - Ye Are Gods") with their ultimate, common human mortality ("die like men"). This creates a profound sense of **Irony**, as those who were granted a title suggesting divinity will share the same fate as the most ordinary of mortals, powerfully highlighting the fleeting nature of earthly power when compared to divine eternity. The use of **Simile** is clearly evident in the phrases "die like men" and "fall like one of the princes," drawing explicit comparisons that ground the abstract concept of divine judgment in concrete, relatable, and universally understood imagery. These similes emphasize both the universality of death and the ignominious end awaiting those who abuse their authority. Furthermore, the verse functions as a powerful **Prophetic Declaration**, a direct, authoritative pronouncement from God regarding the certain and inevitable outcome for the unjust rulers, carrying the weighty force of a divine decree that cannot be averted.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalms 82:7 profoundly articulates God's unwavering commitment to justice and His absolute sovereignty over all creation, including the highest echelons of human authority. It serves as a powerful and enduring reminder that all authority, whether political, judicial, economic, or social, is ultimately derived from God and must be exercised in strict accordance with His righteous character and immutable standards. Those who abuse their power, neglect the vulnerable, or pervert justice will inevitably face a divine reckoning. This truth offers both a sobering warning to those in positions of authority, compelling them to consider their actions through the lens of divine accountability, and a comforting assurance to the oppressed that God is the ultimate Judge who will not tolerate injustice indefinitely. The temporary and fragile nature of human power is starkly contrasted with the eternal, unshakeable, and righteous reign of God, who alone is truly sovereign and just.

* [Deuteronomy 10:17](/deuteronomy/10-17 "Deuteronomy 10:17 - God Shows No Partiality")
* [Proverbs 21:3](/proverbs/21-3 "Proverbs 21:3 - Justice and Righteousness")
* [Isaiah 2:22](/isaiah/2-22 "Isaiah 2:22 - Cease from Man")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Psalms 82:7 delivers a timeless and profoundly relevant message that resonates deeply with both leaders and ordinary individuals across all generations and cultures. For those entrusted with positions of power—whether in government, business, education, community organizations, or even within the church—it serves as a profound and humbling reminder that authority is a sacred trust, a stewardship from God, not a personal entitlement or a means for self-enrichment. It compels leaders to rigorously examine their actions through the lens of divine accountability, urging them to prioritize justice, righteousness, and the welfare of the vulnerable, knowing that their earthly reign is finite and they will one day stand before the ultimate Judge of all. For those who feel oppressed, marginalized, or subjected to injustice by corrupt systems or leaders, this verse offers immense comfort and a powerful beacon of hope. It assures them that God sees their suffering, hears their cries, and will ultimately intervene to bring down those who exploit their power. It encourages a steadfast trust in God's sovereign justice, even when earthly systems fail, fostering patience and persistent prayer while also inspiring righteous action where possible to advocate for the voiceless. For all believers, it reinforces the foundational truth that God's kingdom is eternal and His standards of justice are unwavering, urging us to live with humility, integrity, and an active commitment to seeking justice in our own spheres of influence, recognizing that all human life is temporary and ultimately subject to divine judgment.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the certainty of death and divine judgment impact the way leaders should exercise their authority today, especially in areas of justice and equity?**
* **In what subtle or overt ways might we, even without formal leadership roles, be tempted to act with partiality or neglect the vulnerable in our daily lives, and how does this verse challenge such tendencies?**
* **How can this psalm provide encouragement and resilience to those who are currently experiencing injustice or oppression in their personal lives or communities?**
* **What practical, tangible steps can we take to advocate for justice and righteousness in our communities and societies, inspired by God's own unwavering commitment to these principles?**

### FAQ
**Who are the "gods" in Psalm 82 that are told they will "die like men"?**

Answer: The "gods" (Hebrew: *ʾĕlōhîm*) in Psalms 82 are generally understood by most biblical scholars to refer to human judges, rulers, or powerful magistrates who were divinely appointed or entrusted with authority to administer justice on earth. While some interpretations suggest literal divine beings or angels, the context of God rebuking them for failing to judge righteously and showing partiality strongly points to human leaders who have perverted their God-given role. They are called "gods" in a metaphorical sense, acknowledging their high status and the sacred nature of their office as God's representatives, but [Psalms 82:7](/psalms/82-7 "Psalms 82:7 - Ye Shall Die Like Men") emphatically reminds them of their true, mortal nature.

**What is the significance of "die like men" for these powerful individuals?**

Answer: The phrase "die like men" is profoundly significant because it strips away any illusion of immortality, special status, or divine immunity that these powerful rulers might have presumed due to their elevated position or the title "gods" in [Psalms 82:6](/psalms/82-6 "Psalms 82:6 - Ye Are Gods"). It emphasizes their shared humanity and inherent mortality, asserting that despite their immense earthly power, they are ultimately subject to the same universal fate as every other human being. This serves as a humbling reminder that all earthly authority is temporary and ultimately accountable to God, who alone holds power over life and death. It underscores that no human, regardless of their status, can escape the common destiny of mortality.

**How does this psalm relate to modern leadership and governance?**

Answer: Psalms 82:7 offers timeless principles directly applicable to modern leadership and governance across all sectors. It underscores that all authority, regardless of its form (political, corporate, judicial, religious, or even familial), is a stewardship from God and not an inherent right. Leaders are called to exercise their power with righteousness, impartiality, and a primary concern for the welfare of the vulnerable and oppressed. The psalm reminds modern leaders of their ultimate accountability to a higher power and the temporary nature of their positions. It serves as a potent warning against corruption, favoritism, and the abuse of power, urging humility and integrity in service. For citizens, it reinforces the biblical mandate for justice in society and provides a framework for prayer and advocacy for righteous governance, trusting that God will ultimately judge all unrighteousness.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalms 82:7 finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and redemptive work of Jesus Christ, who stands in stark and glorious contrast to the unjust rulers condemned in the psalm. While earthly "gods" are destined to "die like men" and "fall like princes" due to their corruption and abuse of power, Jesus, though truly God, willingly "emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men" ([Philippians 2:7](/philippians/2-7 "Philippians 2:7 - Christ's Humility and Obedience")). He, the eternal Son of God, truly "died like men" on the cross, not as a consequence of His own sin or unrighteousness, but as the perfect, sinless sacrifice for the sins of humanity, thereby fulfilling the ultimate act of divine justice and mercy. Unlike the earthly princes whose fall signifies a loss of power and an ignominious end, Jesus' voluntary "fall" into death was followed by a glorious resurrection and exaltation, where He was given "all authority in heaven and on earth" ([Matthew 28:18](/matthew/28-18 "Matthew 28:18 - The Great Commission")). He is the righteous King and the ultimate Judge who will one day judge the living and the dead ([John 5:22](/john/5-22 "John 5:22 - Jesus as Judge")), ensuring perfect justice for the oppressed and holding all earthly powers, both human and spiritual, accountable. His kingdom is not temporary like those of human princes but is an eternal kingdom of righteousness, peace, and justice, providing the ultimate hope and vindication for all who suffer under injustice ([Revelation 11:15](/revelation/11-15 "Revelation 11:15 - The Seventh Trumpet")).

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

Ezekiel 31:14

To the end that none of all the trees by the waters exalt themselves for their height, neither shoot up their top among the thick boughs, neither their trees stand up in their height, all that drink water: for they are all delivered unto death, to the nether parts of the earth, in the midst of the children of men, with them that go down to the pit.

Psalms 49:12

Nevertheless man [being] in honour abideth not: he is like the beasts [that] perish.

Job 21:32

Yet shall he be brought to the grave, and shall remain in the tomb.

Psalms 83:11

Make their nobles like Oreb, and like Zeeb: yea, all their princes as Zebah, and as Zalmunna: