Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary PSALM 82
Ps 82:1-8. Before the great Judge, the judges of the earth are rebuked, exhorted, and threatened. 1. congregation—(Compare Ex 12:3; 16:1). of the mighty—that is, of God, of His appointment. the gods—or, "judges" (Ex 21:6; 22:9), God's representatives. How long will ye judge unjustly, and accept the persons of the wicked? Selah. 2. accept the persons—literally, "lift up the faces," that is, from dejection, or admit to favor and communion, regardless of merit (Le 19:15; Pr 18:5).
Defend the poor and fatherless: do justice to the afflicted and needy. 3, 4. So must good judges act (Ps 10:14; Job 29:12).
Deliver the poor and needy: rid them out of the hand of the wicked. 4. poor and needy—(Compare Ps 34:10; 41:1).
They know not, neither will they understand; they walk on in darkness: all the foundations of the earth are out of course. 5. By the wilful ignorance and negligence of judges, anarchy ensues (Ps 11:3; 75:3).
out of course—(Compare Margin; Ps 9:6; 62:2). I have said, Ye are gods; and all of you are children of the most High. 6, 7. Though God admitted their official dignity (Joh 10:34), He reminds them of their mortality.
But ye shall die like men, and fall like one of the princes. 7. fall like, &c.—be cut off suddenly (Ps 20:8; 91:7).
Arise, O God, judge the earth: for thou shalt inherit all nations. 8. As rightful sovereign of earth, God is invoked personally to correct the evils of His representatives. |
