Exploring the Meaning and Message of Psalm 82

Today, October 24th, 2024, I want to explore a topic that carries significant societal implications for future generations. While many may be preoccupied with trending figures like Andrew Tate or the latest social media buzz, I believe it is crucial to turn our attention to Psalm 82. This particular Psalm is profound because it reveals how God Himself takes on the mantle of advocating for justice, especially on behalf of the poor and the needy.

Before we dive deeper into its interpretation, let’s first examine the text of Psalm 82. Here’s what it states, as quoted from biblegateway.com:

"God presides in the great assembly;
He renders judgment among the 'gods':
2 'How long will you defend the unjust
and show partiality to the wicked?
3 Defend the weak and the fatherless;
uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed.
4 Rescue the weak and the needy;
deliver them from the hand of the wicked.
5 The 'gods' know nothing; they understand nothing.
They walk about in darkness;
all the foundations of the earth are shaken.
6 I said, 'You are 'gods';
you are all sons of the Most High.'
7 But you will die like mere mortals;
you will fall like every other ruler.'
8 Rise up, O God; judge the earth,
for all the nations are Your inheritance."

In my perspective, Psalm 82 speaks to a time in the future when God will take it upon Himself to judge these lowercase “gods,” a term that has sparked considerable debate among theologians over the years.

The identity of these "gods" is a matter of discussion, and two main interpretations have emerged:

1. One interpretation suggests that these "gods" refer to angelic beings tasked with executing justice on behalf of Almighty God.
2. The alternative interpretation posits that these "gods" are human judges who have failed in their duties to uphold justice.

I lean towards the second interpretation. While angels are generally viewed as faithful servants of God—carrying out His will without question—human judges have often fallen short. It is these judges who have shown partiality toward the oppressors, neglecting their duty to protect the vulnerable, including the poor, needy, weak, and fatherless.

The gravity of their sin is compounded when we consider that these victims placed their trust in these judges, believing they would receive fair treatment because of their position of authority.

I wish to highlight a critical element of this passage that may have been overlooked by many theologians. Some might think my interpretation is a stretch, but I argue that YHWH (God) appears to be pronouncing a death sentence on these judges at the very outset of the Day of Judgment. The implications of this are profound, particularly considering that these judges may hold significant positions such as those in the Supreme Court or other higher courts. This emphasizes a crucial point: God does not shy away from delivering punishment for their failures.

Furthermore, the passage indicates that these judges "know nothing" and "understand nothing." This observation suggests their profound ignorance regarding the essence of God—who He is, what is dear to Him, and the causes He fervently supports. Their ignorance goes beyond mere folly; it speaks to a negligence of divine accountability.

These judges have failed to recognize that their esteemed positions exist because of God’s approval. They were meant to ensure that justice prevails in the world, yet they have allowed tyranny, exploitation, and cruelty to thrive unchecked. Rather than protecting the oppressed, they have chosen to align themselves with the oppressors. This betrayal leads God to take personal responsibility for punishing these judges, as it represents a serious "breach of trust."

As we reach the conclusion of this Psalm, we encounter the poignant plea: "Rise up, O God; judge the earth, for all the nations are Your inheritance." This powerful line serves as a call not only for the judgment of these flawed human judges but also for a broader reckoning with all who inhabit the earth.

God's judgment should not be limited to merely human judges; it must extend to all living beings so that true justice can be restored. Those who have mistakenly believed themselves to be above the law need to reckon with their actions, and this includes the forces of evil, such as demons. The Bible makes it clear that all opposition to God will ultimately be defeated on the "dreadful day of God Almighty."

Finally, it is worth noting that God has entrusted the future judgment of the earth to His Son, Christ. This aspect of Psalm 82 serves as a powerful reminder that, despite the current failures we observe in the world, there is hope for redemption and restoration. This Psalm embodies both a stark warning for those in power and an encouragement for the oppressed, affirming that justice will ultimately prevail under divine authority.