Berean Standard Bible · Public domain

Psalm 82

Israel’s prayers give language for praise, grief, repentance, and trust. Poetry uses imagery and parallel lines; each psalm should be read as a whole rather than as a detached promise.

Historical context & book outline

1A Psalm of Asaph. God presides in the divine assembly; He renders judgment among the gods:

2“How long will you judge unjustly and show partiality to the wicked? Selah

3Defend the cause of the weak and fatherless; uphold the rights of the afflicted and oppressed.

4Rescue the weak and needy; save them from the hand of the wicked.

5They do not know or understand; they wander in the darkness; all the foundations of the earth are shaken.

6I have said, ‘You are gods; you are all sons of the Most High.’

7But like mortals you will die, and like rulers you will fall.”

8Arise, O God, judge the earth, for all the nations are Your inheritance.

Read closely

  1. What repeated words, contrasts, or actions stand out in this chapter?
  2. How does this chapter fit the surrounding chapters and the book’s purpose?
  3. What did it communicate to its first hearers, before applying it to your life?