Psalms 25:18

Look upon mine affliction and my pain; and forgive all my sins.

Word-by-Word Analysis

רְאֵ֣ה

H7200

Look

to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)

עָ֭נְיִי

H6040

upon mine affliction

depression, i.e., misery

וַעֲמָלִ֑י

H5999

and my pain

toil, i.e., wearing effort; hence, worry, whether of body or mind

וְ֝שָׂ֗א

H5375

and forgive

to lift, in a great variety of applications, literal and figurative, absolute and relative

לְכָל

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

חַטֹּאותָֽי׃

H2403

all my sins

an offence (sometimes habitual sinfulness), and its penalty, occasion, sacrifice, or expiation; also (concretely) an offender

Analysis

This verse develops the suffering and persecution theme central to Psalms. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of suffering and persecution within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to worship literature expressing the full range of human experience before God, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the Israelite monarchy with its court politics and military conflicts. The author writes to address worshipers in the temple and those seeking God in times of distress, making the emphasis on suffering and persecution particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

How does the suffering and persecution theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of suffering and persecution, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of fundamental Christian doctrine?
How does this verse's literary context within Psalms chapter 25 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?