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Hebrew Bible · Psalm 82:1, 6–7

'Ye are gods… ye shall die like men'

EvidenceDocumentedThe text exists and is quoted from a published translation. What it describes is a separate question.What this means
ReferencePsalm 82:1, 6–7
Writtenc. 700–500 BCE
SetTimeless
God standeth in the congregation of the mighty; he judgeth among the gods… I have said, Ye are gods; and all of you are children of the most High. But ye shall die like men, and fall like one of the princes.

Translation: KJV

Read it literally

The rulers of the nations are sentenced to lose their long life. Mortality as a punishment handed to the visitors.

What scholars say

Scholars read it as God judging the lesser gods of the nations in a divine council.

Council of gods

Quick answers about Psalm 82:1, 6–7

Where is Psalm 82:1, 6–7 found?

Psalm 82:1, 6–7 (Hebrew Bible). Translation quoted: King James Version (1611; standard 1769 text), with Apocrypha.

When was Psalm 82:1, 6–7 written?

c. 700–500 BCE.

What do scholars say about Psalm 82:1, 6–7?

Scholars read it as God judging the lesser gods of the nations in a divine council.

Rabbit holes in this passage

BeingThe divine council (sons of God)The Bible's glimpses of a heavenly assembly where 'sons of God' report, debate and receive their sentences.

Sources

  1. King James Version (1611; standard 1769 text), with ApocryphaPrimary text
  2. Psalm 82, King James VersionPrimary text

Scholarly dates are rounded. The wording follows the named public-domain translation.

Updated