Psalms 82:6

I haue said, Ye are gods: and all of you are children of the most High: Psalms 82:6 (KJV)

Psalm 82 is attributed to Asaph, one of the chief musicians appointed by King David to oversee worship in the tabernacle. It is classified as a divine council psalm, depicting a scene in the heavenly realm where God presides over a gathering of divine beings.

The psalm begins with God standing in the divine assembly and passing judgment among the gods (divine beings). These “gods” are not equal to the one true God but are heavenly beings or representatives who serve under God’s authority. Verse 2 describes how the divine beings judge unjustly and show partiality to the wicked, and the psalm then admonishes them to defend the weak, the fatherless, and the afflicted. It is in this context that verse 6 is spoken.

God says, “I have said, Ye are gods; and all of you are children of the Most High.” In this passage the term “gods” refers to those divine beings or judges who are part of God’s divine council. They are called “gods” because they exercise authority and represent God’s rule on earth. The phrase “you are gods” signifies the delegated authority and responsibility given to these beings to administer justice and represent God’s will. As children of the Most High, they derive their authority and existence from God Himself.

Interpretation and application vary. Some view the verse metaphorically, applying it to human judges who hold positions of authority and dispense justice on behalf of God, arguing that judges act as God’s representatives on earth. Others see the “gods” as angelic beings who serve in the divine council, granted a certain level of authority under God’s rule.

Another interpretation understands the statement as irony and rebuke. God is essentially saying that, although these “gods” have been given authority, they have failed to uphold justice and have shown partiality to the wicked. This serves as a reminder of their accountability and the need to fulfill their responsibilities faithfully.

Regardless of the interpretive lens, the underlying principle is that those in positions of authority and responsibility are accountable to God for their actions. The passage emphasizes the importance of justice, fairness, and compassion in carrying out one’s duties.

In conclusion, Psalm 82:6 speaks to the delegated authority given to divine beings or judges in God’s divine council. It underscores their responsibility and accountability in upholding justice and representing God’s will, and it serves as a reminder to all who hold authority that they are answerable to the Most High.