1God standeth in the congregation of the mighty; he judgeth among the gods.
2How long will ye judge unjustly, and accept the persons of the wicked? Selah.
3Defend the poor and fatherless: do justice to the afflicted and needy.
4Deliver the poor and needy: rid them out of the hand of the wicked.
5They know not, neither will they understand; they walk on in darkness: all the foundations of the earth are out of course.
6I have said, Ye are gods; and all of you are children of the most High.
7But ye shall die like men, and fall like one of the princes.
8Arise, O God, judge the earth: for thou shalt inherit all nations.
📖 Chapter study
Summary
God is portrayed judging an assembly of 'gods' (authorities/judges) who failed to protect the poor and the fatherless, and He is called upon to rise up and judge the whole earth with justice.
Explanation
This psalm uses an image of the heavenly court, common in ancient Near Eastern literature, but reinterpreted here: the 'gods' (elohim) are understood by many scholars to be human judges or rulers who were given delegated authority from God, but who will be judged like any mortal for failing to do justice to the weak. This text is quoted by Jesus in John 10:34 in a discussion about His own identity. The practical application is the strong biblical call for those who hold power and authority to use it to protect, not exploit, the vulnerable.