Defend the poor and fatherless: do justice to the afflicted and needy.
Kings blinded by pride claim boundless liberty, but they must answer to the Supreme Judge who sits above them all. The Psalmist first reminds them of their duty, then, seeing they will not hear, calls on God Himself to vindicate His righteous judgment.
AI summary
Commenting on Psalm 82:1-8
Defend the poor and fatherless. Cease to do evil, learn to do well. Look not to the interests of the wealthy whose hands proffer you bribes, but protect the rights of the needy, and especially uphold the claims of orphans whose property too often becomes a prey.
We have here, I. God's supreme presidency and power in all councils and courts asserted and laid down, as a great truth necessary to be believed both by princes and subjects (Psa 82:1): God stands, as chief director, in the congregation of the mighty, the mighty One, in coetu fortis - in the councils of the prince, the supreme magistrate, and he judges among the...
Commenting on Psalm 82:1-5