The Meaning of Numbers: The Number 82
The possible meaning of the number 82 is derived from its use in the Psalms and the occurrence of certain words in Scripture.
The book of Psalms, in the original Hebrew manuscripts of the Old Testament, is divided into five sections. Psalm 82 is in the third section that contains chapters 73 to 89. The general theme of this third section is on the destruction of Jerusalem and the Temple.
Jesus travels to Jerusalem to keep the Festival of Lights (Hanukkah) in late December of 29 A.D. While in the city he is accosted by Jews who demand he plainly tell them whether he is the promised Messiah (John 10:22 - 24). After Jesus gives a short answer he states, "I and the Father are one" (verse 30). The Jews, furious because they believe he has spoken blasphemy, hurriedly begin to gather stones. They zealously want to stone him since, "being a man, (you) are making Yourself God" (John 10:33).
Jesus responds to this threat against his life by quoting verse 6 of Psalm 82.
"Is it not written in your law, 'I said, "You are gods"'? . . ." (John 10:34).
His Scriptural answer does little to quench the anger of those who are against him. He ends up escaping out of Jerusalem where he travels to the eastern side of the Jordan River (John 10:39 - 40).
Appearances of number eighty-two
The Hebrew word zakar (Strong's #H2145) occurs 82 times in the Old Testament. It is used in the KJV Bible to designate a male human or animal. It is recorded the most in the original language version of Leviticus and Numbers.
Number 82 and the Psalms
Psalm 82 is one of twelve Psalms written by or for Asaph. These songs are Psalm 50 and 73 through 83.
Asaph, a Levite, was appointed personally by King David to sound bronze cymbals when the Ark of the Covenant was brought into Jerusalem (1Chronicles 15:1 - 19). A short time later he was charged, ". . . to record, and to thank and praise the Lord God of Israel" when the Ark was placed in a special tent within the city (16:1 - 5). Not only was he considered one of David's three chief musicians, he was also one of his private prophets (25:1 - 2).
Psalm 82 warns human judges that God himself will judge whether they acted righteously based on his laws or not. They are to be impartial and uphold the rights of the less fortunate such as the poor, fatherless or those who are oppressed.
God stands in the congregation of the mighty; He judges among the gods. How long will you judge unjustly and respect the persons of the wicked? . . .
Deliver the poor and needy; save them out of the hand of the wicked (verses 1 - 2 and 4 of Psalm 82, HBFV).
More Info on Biblical Meaning of 82
The Hebrew primitive root word qalal (Strong's #H7043), used many times to designate something is cursed or despised, is recorded 82 times in the Old Testament.
The Hebrew word qorban (Strong's #H7133), found 82 times in the Old Testament's original manuscripts, means something brought near an altar as a sacrificial present. Its New Testament Greek equivalent is korban (#G2878), translated as Corban in Mark 7:11. Jesus roundly criticized the practice of Corban, which allowed a person to reject the Bible command to aid their parents, by using the excuse that their assistance was set aside as a gift for God (see Mark 7:6 - 12).