What does Psalm 82:6 mean when it says 'ye are gods'?

Psalm 82:6 is a verse that has intrigued and puzzled many readers of the Bible. The verse reads: "I have said, Ye are gods; and all of you are children of the most High." To understand this statement, it is essential to consider the context of the entire psalm, the cultural and historical background, and how this verse has been interpreted within Christian theology.

Psalm 82 is a psalm of Asaph, and it begins with a depiction of God standing in the divine assembly, judging among the "gods" (Psalm 82:1). The term "gods" here is the Hebrew word "elohim," which can refer to God, gods, or even human judges and rulers. In this context, it appears that these "gods" are human judges or leaders who have been given authority by God to govern and execute justice.

The psalm continues with a rebuke of these judges for their failure to uphold justice and defend the weak and needy. Verses 2-5 state:

"How long will ye judge unjustly, and accept the persons of the wicked? Selah. Defend the poor and fatherless: do justice to the afflicted and needy. Deliver the poor and needy: rid them out of the hand of the wicked. They know not, neither will they understand; they walk on in darkness: all the foundations of the earth are out of course."

In this context, the "gods" are criticized for their corruption and failure to fulfill their responsibilities. They are described as walking in darkness and causing the foundations of the earth to be shaken. This sets the stage for the declaration in verse 6, where God reminds them of their high calling and the divine authority they hold: "I have said, Ye are gods; and all of you are children of the most High."

The phrase "ye are gods" indicates that these judges have been given a divine mandate. They are called to represent God's justice and righteousness on earth. The term "children of the most High" further emphasizes their special status and responsibility. However, this high calling comes with great accountability.

Verse 7 serves as a warning: "But ye shall die like men, and fall like one of the princes." Despite their exalted position, these judges are reminded of their mortality and the consequences of their failure to uphold justice. Their divine authority does not exempt them from judgment and death.

To fully grasp the meaning of Psalm 82:6, it is helpful to consider how this verse is interpreted in other parts of Scripture. In the New Testament, Jesus references this verse in John 10:34-36 during a confrontation with the Jewish leaders:

"Jesus answered them, Is it not written in your law, I said, Ye are gods? If he called them gods, unto whom the word of God came, and the scripture cannot be broken; Say ye of him, whom the Father hath sanctified, and sent into the world, Thou blasphemest; because I said, I am the Son of God?"

Jesus uses Psalm 82:6 to defend His claim of being the Son of God. He argues that if Scripture can refer to human judges as "gods" because of their divine commission, then it is not blasphemy for Him to call Himself the Son of God, especially since He is sanctified and sent by the Father. This usage by Jesus highlights the principle that those who receive God's word and authority are given a special status, but it also underscores their accountability.

The interpretation of Psalm 82:6 has varied among Christian theologians. Early Church Fathers like Augustine and Athanasius saw this verse as emphasizing the responsibility and accountability of those in positions of authority. They argued that the term "gods" reflects the divine image in humanity and the calling to reflect God's justice and righteousness. However, they also stressed that this status does not make humans divine in essence but rather in function and responsibility.

In contemporary Christian theology, Psalm 82:6 is often understood as a reminder of the high calling and responsibility of leaders and judges. It serves as a warning against corruption and injustice and a call to reflect God's character in positions of authority. This interpretation aligns with the broader biblical theme of justice and righteousness, as seen in passages like Micah 6:8:

"He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?"

Psalm 82:6 also speaks to the inherent dignity and value of every human being as created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27). While not all are judges or rulers, all are called to reflect God's character in their lives and to act justly and mercifully. This understanding can inspire believers to pursue justice and righteousness in their own spheres of influence, recognizing that they are accountable to God for their actions.

Furthermore, the concept of being "children of the most High" resonates with the New Testament teaching of believers being adopted into God's family through faith in Christ (Galatians 4:4-7). This adoption grants believers a new identity and calling to live as representatives of God's kingdom on earth.

In summary, Psalm 82:6, "I have said, Ye are gods; and all of you are children of the most High," is a profound declaration of the divine mandate given to human judges and leaders. It highlights their responsibility to uphold justice and righteousness and serves as a warning of the consequences of failing to do so. This verse, when understood in its broader biblical context, calls all believers to reflect God's character in their lives and to pursue justice, mercy, and humility in their relationships and communities.