Psalms 82:5
They know not, neither will they understand; they walk on in darkness: all the foundations of the earth are out of course.
Psalms 82:5 (KJV)
Context
Psalm 82 is attributed to Asaph, one of the chief musicians in King David’s time. The psalm portrays God as the supreme Judge who stands in the divine council, rebuking earthly rulers and judges. These authorities are called “gods” in verse 6 because they hold God-given power. In this verse, the psalmist condemns them for their willful ignorance and their failure to administer justice.
Meaning
The verse begins, “They know not, neither will they understand.” This is not simple ignorance; it is a stubborn refusal to learn God’s ways. The rulers do not know justice, and they refuse to understand it. Their hearts are hardened against truth.
“They walk on in darkness” uses the Hebrew word choshech, which pictures moral and spiritual blindness. To walk in darkness means to live without the light of God’s truth, unable to see the right path. Such people stumble through life, harming others because they cannot discern right from wrong.
The final phrase, “all the foundations of the earth are out of course,” can also be translated as “shaken” or “moved.” The foundations represent the moral and social order that God established. When those in power reject knowledge and understanding, the whole society becomes unstable. Injustice in leadership shakes the very ground people stand on. This instability is not limited to the rulers themselves; it affects everyone who depends on a just society.
Biblical connections
This verse echoes the broader biblical truth that God holds all rulers accountable. In Psalm 82, God judges the “gods” for their failure. The New Testament also teaches that all authority comes from God and will answer to Him (Romans 13:1). When human judges act wickedly, they oppose God’s order and bring chaos. The psalm reminds us that God’s justice is the foundation of all human justice.
Application
Pursue knowledge and understanding of God’s Word. Study the Scriptures and ask the Holy Spirit to teach you, so you do not walk in darkness.
Embrace God’s light by living in obedience to His truth. Let His Word guide your decisions and keep you from the confusion of sin.
Uphold God’s foundations by seeking justice and showing compassion. In your family, church, and community, act in ways that reflect God’s righteous order.
Reflection
This verse warns that willful ignorance has serious consequences. When we refuse to know and understand God’s ways, we walk in darkness and contribute to the shaking of society. But God offers light to all who seek Him. He is the ultimate Judge who will set all things right. Let us humbly ask Him for wisdom, so that our lives may help establish justice and peace rather than disorder.
