Psalms 82 - Dummelow's Commentary on the Bible

Of the mighty] RV 'of God' (El). A heavenly assembly is meant, as in Job 1:6; Job 2:1; Zechariah 3. The gods] the judges of Israel, so called as the official representatives of God on earth. See Christ's explanation in John 10:34; John 10:35.

This Ps. is an impeachment of unjust judges, who are officially called 'gods.' It represents them as put upon their trial at God's tribunal (Psalms 82:1). God Himself denounces their wickedness (Psalms 82:2), and reminds them of their duties (Psalms 82:3-4). In Psalms 82:5 He declares that they are incorrigible, and in Psalms 82:6-7 pronounces sentence upon them. Psalms 82:8 is the Psalmist's own prayer that God may manifest His righteous judgment to all the nations. The date of the Ps. is quite uncertain. Oriental judges have been corrupt in all ages.

Accept] RV 'respect.'

Defend] RV 'judge.'

They know not] The judges are deaf to reproof. Out of course] RV 'moved.' Injustice leads to the wreck of society.

See on Psalms 82:1.

The v. contrasts the purely human fate of the unjust judges with the superhuman dignity of their calling.