Psalms 51:3
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 51:3
3 For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me.
Chapter Context
Psalms 51 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of mercy, righteousness, 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 13-19: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. 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 51:3
3 For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me.
Analysis
The confession: 'For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me.' David uses three words for sin: pesha (transgression, rebellion), chata'ah (sin, missing the mark), and avon (iniquity, twisted perversity). The sin is 'ever before me'--not hidden, excused, or minimized but constantly confronted.
Historical Context
Written after Nathan confronted David about Bathsheba and Uriah (2 Samuel 12), this psalm models genuine repentance: owning sin without excuse or blame-shifting.
Reflection
- What does keeping sin 'ever before me' contribute to genuine repentance?
- How do the three Hebrew words for sin capture different aspects of moral failure?
Word Studies
- Transgression: פֶּשַׁע (Pesha) H6588 - Transgression, rebellion
Cross-References
- Sin: Psalms 32:5, 38:18, Job 33:27, Proverbs 28:13, Isaiah 59:12, Jeremiah 3:25
- Parallel theme: Psalms 40:12