Ye Are Gods <a href="https://www.quora.com/profile/Zden%C4%9Bk-Mi%C4%8Dke" target="_blank">Zdenek Micke</a>
·The interpretation of Psalm 82 and John 10:34 by members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church, commonly known as the Mormons) is indeed distinct from mainstream Christian exegesis. To understand their perspective, it's important to look at both the scriptural passages in question and the broader context of LDS theology.
Psalm 82: This Psalm, particularly verse 6 ("I have said, Ye are gods; and all of you are children of the most High"), is interpreted in various ways. In a traditional Jewish and Christian context, it's often understood as a metaphorical reference to judges or rulers, calling them "gods" in the sense of being representatives of divine authority on Earth, but still fundamentally human and mortal.
John 10:34: In this New Testament passage, Jesus quotes Psalm 82:6 in response to those who accuse him of blasphemy for claiming to be the Son of God. He says, "Is it not written in your law, 'I have said you are gods'?" In mainstream Christian interpretation, this is often seen as Jesus using a rabbinic argument technique to challenge his accusers, suggesting that if scripture can use divine language for humans in authority, his claim to divine sonship should not be considered blasphemous.
LDS Interpretation: Latter-day Saints have a unique doctrinal framework that includes the belief in the potential for humans to become like God. This is often referred to as "exaltation" or "eternal progression." In this context, they interpret these scriptures more literally, seeing them as indicative of the potential for humans to achieve a divine status. They view Psalm 82:6 and Jesus' reference to it in John 10:34 as supportive of this doctrine.
"Ye Are Gods": In LDS theology, the phrase "ye are gods" is seen as an affirmation of the potential divinity of each individual, in line with their belief in a pre-mortal existence and the eternal nature of the soul. They interpret it as suggesting that humans, as children of God, have the potential to become like their Heavenly Father.
"Dying Like Men": The latter part of Psalm 82:6 and the following verse ("But ye shall die like men, and fall like one of the princes") is interpreted in LDS thought as a reference to the mortal condition and the fallibility of humans, even those with potential for divinity. It's seen as a reminder of the need for righteousness and adherence to God's commandments to realize this potential.
Context of LDS Theology: This interpretation is consistent with other unique aspects of LDS doctrine, such as the belief in a pre-mortal life, the eternal nature of families, and the possibility of humans progressing to a state of godhood through righteous living and adherence to LDS teachings and ordinances.
Latter-day Saints interpret Psalm 82 and John 10:34 within the context of their broader theological beliefs about the nature of God and the potential destiny of humankind. This interpretation is distinct from mainstream Christian theology and is rooted in the specific doctrines and teachings of the LDS Church.