Purpose

To provide a songbook for worship and express the full range of human emotions in relationship with God.

Author

Multiple authors over 1,000 years. David wrote nearly half (73 psalms), often during his years as a shepherd, warrior, and king. Other contributors include worship leaders, musicians, and poets.

Historical Context

Written: 1440-400 BC. Israel's worship songs covering 1,000 years of history from Moses to the exile.

Significance

The Bible's prayer book and hymnal, showing us how to relate to God honestly in every circumstance.

Key Themes

Worship, Prayer, God's Character, Trust, Deliverance

Interesting Facts

• Psalms is the longest book in the Bible with 150 chapters
• Jesus quoted Psalms more than any other Old Testament book
• Psalm 117 is the shortest chapter in the Bible (2 verses)

Prophecies

• Messianic psalms predicting Christ's suffering and glory (Psalms 22, 69, 110, etc.) Fulfilled: Jesus fulfilled these in His crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension (1000 years later)

Psalm 82, attributed to Asaph, presents a profound reflection on divine justice and the responsibility of earthly rulers. The psalm opens with a dramatic scene where God stands in the assembly of divine beings, or 'gods,' to render judgment. This imagery highlights God's sovereignty over all powers, both heavenly and earthly. The initial verses challenge the unjust practices of rulers who are accused of favoring the wicked while neglecting the weak and the needy. Asaph's plea is a call for justice, urging those in power to uphold the rights of the marginalized, including the fatherless and the afflicted. The psalmist laments the ignorance of the judges, who, despite their elevated status, lack true understanding and wisdom. In their failure to execute justice, they contribute to societal chaos, causing the very foundations of the earth to tremble. The psalm takes a theological turn as it asserts the identity of these rulers as 'gods,' acknowledging their authority but reminding them of their mortality—they will ultimately die like mere men. The climax of the psalm is a fervent appeal for God to rise and judge the earth, emphasizing His ultimate authority over all nations. This concluding plea reflects a hope for divine intervention in the face of human injustice, reinforcing the belief that God will ultimately restore order and righteousness. The psalm serves both as a warning to those in positions of power and as an encouragement to the oppressed, affirming that God is aware of their plight and will act to deliver them.