King James Version
Psalm 82
Confronting unjust leaders and earthly judges, this brief prophetic psalm portrays a heavenly assembly where leaders are called to account for failing the vulnerable. The text demands active protection for the poor, fatherless, and oppressed, warning that corrupt authority undermines the stability of society. Nestled near the end of the Asaph collection in Book III of the Psalter, this chapter highlights social justice as a core responsibility under divine law. True authority rests upon fairness and care for the needy. A central directive highlights this mandate: "Defend the poor and fatherless: do justice to the afflicted and needy."
1 God standeth in the congregation of the mighty; he judgeth among the gods.
2 How long will ye judge unjustly, and accept the persons of the wicked? Selah.
3 Defend the poor and fatherless: do justice to the afflicted and needy.
4 Deliver the poor and needy: rid them out of the hand of the wicked.
5 They know not, neither will they understand; they walk on in darkness: all the foundations of the earth are out of course.
6 I have said, Ye are gods; and all of you are children of the most High.
7 But ye shall die like men, and fall like one of the princes.
8 Arise, O God, judge the earth: for thou shalt inherit all nations.
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