Psalms 38:18
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 38:18
18 For I will declare mine iniquity; I will be sorry for my sin.
Chapter Context
Psalms 38 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of holiness, salvation, wisdom. Written during various periods (c. 1000-400 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Temple worship utilized these compositions across various periods of Israel's history.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-22: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Psalms and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Psalms 38:18
18 For I will declare mine iniquity; I will be sorry for my sin.
Analysis
For I will declare mine iniquity; I will be sorry for my sin. David commits to two actions: declare iniquity (נָגַד עָוֹן, nagad avon, make known perversity) and be sorry (דָּאַג, da'ag, be anxious/grieved) for sin (חַטָּאת, chatta't, missing the mark). Confession plus contrition—both public acknowledgment and internal grief.
The future tense 'I will' signals resolve to continue what he's already begun. Nagad implies open declaration, not private admission—David won't hide or minimize. Da'ag conveys anxious grief, the godly sorrow that leads to repentance (2 Corinthians 7:10). This verse demonstrates the penitent's proper posture: transparent confession + genuine contrition, without excuse or self-justification.
Historical Context
In Israel, confession could be private (to God) or public (before community), depending on the sin's nature. David's public sins (Bathsheba, Absalom's rebellion) required public acknowledgment. Psalm 51, likely written after Nathan's confrontation, exemplifies this transparent confession. Concealed sin perpetuates curse; declared sin opens the door to forgiveness.
Reflection
- What 'iniquity' do you need to 'declare' (confess openly) rather than keeping private between you and God?
- How does true 'sorrow for sin' differ from regret over consequences or embarrassment at being caught?
- Why does genuine repentance require both confession (verbal acknowledgment) and contrition (emotional grief)?
Word Studies
- Iniquity: עָוֹן (Avon) H5771 - Iniquity, guilt, punishment
Cross-References
- Sin: Psalms 32:5, 51:3, Job 33:27, Proverbs 28:13