Psalms 26:6
I will wash mine hands in innocency: so will I compass thine altar, O LORD:
Original Language Analysis
כַּפָּ֑י
mine hands
H3709
כַּפָּ֑י
mine hands
Strong's:
H3709
Word #:
3 of 7
the hollow hand or palm (so of the paw of an animal, of the sole, and even of the bowl of a dish or sling, the handle of a bolt, the leaves of a palm-
וַאֲסֹבְבָ֖ה
so will I compass
H5437
וַאֲסֹבְבָ֖ה
so will I compass
Strong's:
H5437
Word #:
4 of 7
to revolve, surround, or border; used in various applications, literally and figuratively
Cross References
Psalms 73:13Verily I have cleansed my heart in vain, and washed my hands in innocency.Psalms 43:4Then will I go unto the altar of God, unto God my exceeding joy: yea, upon the harp will I praise thee, O God my God.Psalms 24:4He that hath clean hands, and a pure heart; who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully.1 Timothy 2:8I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting.Titus 3:5Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;
Historical Context
Levitical law required priests to wash before serving at the altar (Ex. 30:17-21). This ritual symbolized moral purity necessary for approaching holy God. The psalmist spiritualizes this—moral integrity qualifies for worship more than mere ritual compliance.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Christ's blood 'wash your hands' to qualify you for worship?
- What does approaching God's altar with 'innocency' mean practically?
Analysis & Commentary
The declaration 'I will wash mine hands in innocency' uses ritual purification imagery to express moral purity. Washing hands symbolized cleansing from guilt. 'So will I compass thine altar, O LORD' describes approaching God's presence for worship. Reformed theology emphasizes that approaching God requires cleansing—ultimately provided through Christ's blood, not our works. The psalmist's claim to innocence is relative (covenant faithfulness), not absolute (sinlessness). Only Christ perfectly combines innocence and altar-service.