Psalms 32:5

KJV

I acknowledged my sin unto thee, and mine iniquity have I not hid. I said, I will confess my transgressions unto the LORD; and thou forgavest the iniquity of my sin. Selah.

KJV (with Strong's)

I acknowledged {H3045} my sin {H2403} unto thee, and mine iniquity {H5771} have I not hid {H3680}. I said {H559}, I will confess {H3034} my transgressions {H6588} unto the LORD {H3068}; and thou forgavest {H5375} the iniquity {H5771} of my sin {H2403}. Selah {H5542}.

Complete Jewish Bible

When I acknowledged my sin to you, when I stopped concealing my guilt, and said, "I will confess my offenses to ADONAI"; then you, you forgave the guilt of my sin. (Selah)

Berean Standard Bible

Then I acknowledged my sin to You and did not hide my iniquity. I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the LORD,” and You forgave the guilt of my sin. Selah

American Standard Version

I acknowledged my sin unto thee, And mine iniquity did I not hide: I said, I will confess my transgressions unto Jehovah; And thou forgavest the iniquity of my sin. [Selah

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalms 32:5 is a profound declaration of King David's spiritual liberation, revealing the transformative power of honest confession before God. After experiencing the debilitating effects of unacknowledged guilt, David chooses to fully disclose his transgressions, finding immediate and complete divine forgiveness. This verse marks the turning point in the psalm, transitioning from the anguish of concealed sin to the joyous relief and blessing of God's pardoning grace, serving as a timeless testimony to the accessibility of God's mercy for all who genuinely repent.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalms 32 is designated as a "Maskil," a term often interpreted as a psalm of instruction or contemplation, indicating its didactic purpose to teach profound spiritual truths. It belongs to the wisdom literature of the Old Testament, specifically within the collection of penitential psalms (Psalms 6, 32, 38, 51, 102, 130, 143), which express sorrow for sin and appeal for divine mercy. The verses immediately preceding Psalms 32:5 vividly describe the physical and emotional toll of unconfessed sin, with David lamenting how his "bones waxed old through my roaring all the day long" and his "moisture is turned into the drought of summer" [Psalms 32:3](/psalms/32-3 "Psalms 32:3 - The Burden of Unconfessed Sin") and [Psalms 32:4](/psalms/32-4 "Psalms 32:4 - The Wasting Effect of Guilt"). Verse 5, therefore, functions as the dramatic pivot, presenting the solution to this agonizing condition: sincere confession and God's immediate forgiveness, leading to the blessed state described in the psalm's opening verses.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** While not explicitly stated, tradition and internal evidence strongly suggest that Psalms 32 reflects David's experience following his grievous sins of adultery with Bathsheba and the murder of Uriah, as detailed in [2 Samuel 11](/2_samuel/11 "2 Samuel 11 - David's Sin with Bathsheba") and [2 Samuel 12](/2_samuel/12 "2 Samuel 12 - Nathan Confronts David"). This period was marked by David's initial attempt to conceal his actions, which led to immense spiritual and psychological distress. In ancient Israel, sin was understood not merely as a moral failing but as a breach of covenant with a holy God, carrying both personal and communal consequences. Confession, often accompanied by sacrifice, was the prescribed means of reconciliation and restoration of fellowship. David's public and heartfelt confession, as depicted here, would have been a profound act of humility and faith, acknowledging God's sovereignty and righteousness, and demonstrating the path to atonement within the covenant framework.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the Psalms and broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it underscores **The Destructive Nature of Unconfessed Sin**, illustrating how hiding wrongdoing leads to physical and spiritual decay, a theme also explored in [Proverbs 28:13](/proverbs/28-13 "Proverbs 28:13 - Consequences of Hiding Sin"). Secondly, it highlights **The Liberating Power of Confession**, presenting it as the essential conduit for releasing the burden of guilt and restoring peace. David's willingness to "acknowledge" and "not hide" his iniquity is portrayed as the direct precursor to divine intervention. Thirdly, and most significantly, it magnifies **God's Abundant Readiness to Forgive**. The immediate response, "and thou forgavest," emphasizes God's gracious character and His eagerness to pardon those who genuinely turn to Him. This divine attribute is a foundational truth echoed throughout Scripture, from the promise in [Isaiah 1:18](/isaiah/1-18 "Isaiah 1:18 - Sins Washed White as Snow") that sins "shall be as white as snow" to the New Testament assurance in [1 John 1:9](/1_john/1-9 "1 John 1:9 - God's Faithfulness to Forgive") that "He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins."

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Sin (Hebrew, _chatta'ah'_):** This term (חַטָּאָה) primarily signifies "missing the mark" or "falling short." It describes an error, a failure to hit the target of God's perfect standard. It can refer to unintentional transgressions or a general state of sinfulness. In David's context, it encompasses the fundamental deviation from God's will.
* **Iniquity (Hebrew, _'avon'_):** The Hebrew word (עָוֹן) carries the nuance of "perversity," "moral distortion," or "crookedness." It emphasizes the inherent guilt and culpability associated with wrongdoing, often implying the twisted nature of the act itself and the resulting burden of guilt. It suggests a deliberate bending of what is right, a moral depravity.
* **Transgressions (Hebrew, _pesha'_):** This term (פֶּשַׁע) is the strongest of the three, denoting "rebellion," "revolt," or "a conscious breaking of a covenant or law." It implies a deliberate act of defiance against authority, a willful breach of a relationship. David's use of this word indicates his recognition that his actions were not merely mistakes but acts of open rebellion against God's holy commands.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"I acknowledged my sin unto thee":** This clause signifies a conscious, intentional act of confession. The verb "acknowledged" (יָדַע, _yadah_) implies not just intellectual recognition but a full, open admission, a laying bare of the soul before God. It is a turning from self-deception and concealment to radical honesty, recognizing God as the ultimate recipient of the confession.
* **"and mine iniquity have I not hid.":** This statement reinforces the completeness of David's confession. The phrase "not hid" (לֹא כִסִּיתִי, _lo' khissiti_) directly contrasts with the prior state of concealment and suffering described in the preceding verses. It emphasizes the transparency and lack of reservation in his repentance, a willingness to expose the full extent of his moral distortion and guilt.
* **"I said, I will confess my transgressions unto the LORD;":** This clause highlights the internal decision and verbal commitment to confess. The phrase "I said" (אָמַרְתִּי, _'amarti_) indicates a resolute choice made in his heart, which then translates into outward action. The specific mention of "the LORD" (יְהוָה, _YHWH_) underscores that this confession is directed to the covenant God of Israel, acknowledging His authority and justice, and appealing to His mercy. The use of "transgressions" (פֶּשַׁע) here emphasizes the rebellious nature of his sin.
* **"and thou forgavest the iniquity of my sin.":** This is the climactic declaration of divine grace. The immediate "and thou forgavest" (וְאַתָּה נָשָׂאתָ, _ve'attah nasata_) denotes God's swift and complete pardon. The verb "forgave" (נָשָׂא, _nasa'_) literally means "to lift up," "to carry away," or "to bear." It conveys the idea that God has removed the burden and guilt of sin, taking it upon Himself. The repetition of "iniquity of my sin" emphasizes that the guilt and twistedness of his wrongdoing have been fully addressed and removed by God.
* **"Selah.":** This musical or liturgical notation, found frequently in the Psalms, serves as an instruction to pause, reflect, and meditate deeply on the preceding words. It invites the reader or worshiper to absorb the profound truth of confession and forgiveness, allowing its spiritual weight to settle in the heart.

#### Literary Devices
Psalms 32:5 masterfully employs several literary devices to convey its powerful message. **Contrast** is central, juxtaposing the agonizing state of hidden sin (implied from previous verses) with the immediate relief and forgiveness that follows open confession. The psalmist's journey from "not hid" to "thou forgavest" creates a clear before-and-after narrative. **Parallelism** is evident in the structure of the first two clauses ("I acknowledged my sin unto thee, and mine iniquity have I not hid"), where the second line reinforces and expands upon the first, emphasizing the totality of David's transparency. The use of three distinct terms for sin—_chatta'ah_ (sin), _'avon_ (iniquity), and _pesha'_ (transgressions)—creates a powerful **climax** or **gradation**, indicating a comprehensive and escalating understanding of the depth and nature of his wrongdoing, from missing the mark to outright rebellion. Finally, the inclusion of **Selah** acts as a **rhetorical marker**, prompting the reader to pause and internalize the profound theological truth of divine forgiveness, amplifying its emotional and spiritual impact.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalms 32:5 stands as a cornerstone for understanding the biblical doctrine of repentance and forgiveness. It reveals God's character as both righteous in demanding accountability for sin and merciful in extending pardon to the penitent. The immediate nature of God's forgiveness ("and thou forgavest") underscores His eagerness to restore fellowship with His creation, demonstrating that His grace is not withheld but freely given upon genuine confession. This verse teaches that true spiritual healing and peace are found not in self-justification or concealment, but in humble admission of guilt and reliance on God's unfailing compassion. It prefigures the New Covenant truth that God desires reconciliation more than condemnation, offering a pathway for all humanity to be reconciled to Him.

* [1 John 1:9](/1_john/1-9 "God's Faithfulness to Forgive")
* [Proverbs 28:13](/proverbs/28-13 "Consequences of Hiding Sin")
* [Isaiah 55:7](/isaiah/55-7 "Let the Wicked Forsake His Way")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Psalms 32:5 offers timeless guidance for believers, serving as a powerful reminder that the path to spiritual freedom and renewed fellowship with God lies in honest, unreserved confession. In a world that often encourages hiding flaws or minimizing wrongdoing, David's example calls us to radical transparency before our Creator. The burden of unconfessed sin is not merely psychological; it is a spiritual weight that hinders our relationship with God, diminishes our joy, and can even manifest in physical and emotional distress. This verse assures us that God already knows our hearts, yet our confession is a vital act of humility, trust, and surrender. It is an acknowledgment of His sovereignty and our dependence on His grace. When we confess, we are not informing God of something He doesn't know, but rather aligning our hearts with His truth, opening ourselves to the cleansing power of His forgiveness, and experiencing the profound peace that only He can provide. This act transforms a burdened spirit into one of joy, praise, and renewed intimacy with the Father.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What unconfessed sins or hidden burdens might I be carrying that are hindering my spiritual freedom and joy?**
* **How does David's immediate experience of forgiveness encourage me to be more prompt and thorough in my own confessions?**
* **In what ways does this verse challenge my natural inclination to hide or minimize my faults, even from God?**
* **What practical steps can I take to cultivate a habit of regular, honest confession in my walk with God?**

### FAQ

**What does "Selah" mean at the end of the verse?**

Answer: "Selah" is a Hebrew word found frequently in the Psalms and Habakkuk, believed to be a musical or liturgical instruction. While its exact meaning is debated, it is generally understood to mean "pause," "lift up," or "to reflect." In the context of [Psalms 32:5](/psalms/32-5 "Psalms 32:5 - The Blessing of Confession and Forgiveness"), "Selah" serves as a powerful invitation for the reader or worshiper to pause, meditate deeply, and internalize the profound truth that has just been declared: the immediate and complete forgiveness of God upon confession. It encourages a moment of quiet contemplation to allow the weight and wonder of this spiritual reality to sink in.

**Why do I need to confess my sins if God already knows them?**

Answer: While it is true that God is omniscient and already knows every sin we have committed, confession is not for His information but for our transformation and reconciliation. Confession is an act of humility, acknowledging God's holiness and our own sinfulness. It is an act of repentance, turning away from our wrongdoing and back to Him. It demonstrates our trust in His mercy and grace. As [1 John 1:9](/1_john/1-9 "1 John 1:9 - God's Faithfulness to Forgive") states, "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." This verse highlights that confession is the divinely appointed pathway for us to receive forgiveness, be cleansed, and restore our fellowship with God, moving from a state of guilt and separation to one of peace and communion.

**Does this verse mean all sins are automatically forgiven once confessed?**

Answer: Psalms 32:5 strongly suggests an immediate and complete forgiveness ("thou forgavest the iniquity of my sin") upon genuine confession. The biblical pattern consistently shows God's readiness to forgive those who truly repent. However, "confession" in Scripture implies more than just a verbal admission; it involves a turning of the heart (repentance) and a willingness to forsake the sin. This verse, like others such as [Proverbs 28:13](/proverbs/28-13 "Proverbs 28:13 - Consequences of Hiding Sin") ("He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy"), links confession with the abandonment of sin. God's forgiveness is freely offered to all who approach Him with a contrite heart, made possible through the ultimate sacrifice of Christ.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalms 32:5, with its profound declaration of forgiveness through confession, finds its ultimate and glorious fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. David's experience, while real and powerful, was a shadow of the perfect and complete atonement that would be accomplished through the Messiah. The "iniquity" and "transgressions" that David confessed, representing the full spectrum of human sinfulness ([Romans 3:23](/romans/3-23 "Romans 3:23 - All Have Sinned")), were fully borne by Christ on the cross. He became the ultimate "Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!" ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")), shedding His innocent blood as the perfect sacrifice, without which "there is no remission" of sins ([Hebrews 9:22](/hebrews/9-22 "Hebrews 9:22 - Without Shedding of Blood")). Through Christ, the promise of forgiveness is not merely a divine act of overlooking, but a righteous declaration based on propitiation—God's wrath against sin being satisfied in His Son ([Romans 3:25-26](/romans/3-25 "Romans 3:25 - Christ's Propitiation") and [Romans 3:26](/romans/3-26 "Romans 3:26 - God's Righteousness and Justifier")). Thus, when we confess our sins to the Lord today, we do so not under the Old Covenant system of sacrifices, but in reliance upon the finished work of Jesus, who "his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree" ([1 Peter 2:24](/1_peter/2-24 "1 Peter 2:24 - Christ Bore Our Sins")), enabling God to be both just and the justifier of those who believe in Him. Our forgiveness is not just an act of mercy, but an act of divine justice accomplished through Christ, making us "alive together with him, having forgiven us all trespasses" ([Colossians 2:13](/colossians/2-13 "Colossians 2:13 - Made Alive with Christ")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Proverbs 28:13

¶ He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh [them] shall have mercy.

2 Samuel 12:13

And David said unto Nathan, I have sinned against the LORD. And Nathan said unto David, The LORD also hath put away thy sin; thou shalt not die.

Psalms 51:3

For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin [is] ever before me.

Psalms 51:5

Behold, I was shapen in iniquity; and in sin did my mother conceive me.

Psalms 38:18

For I will declare mine iniquity; I will be sorry for my sin.

Isaiah 65:24

And it shall come to pass, that before they call, I will answer; and while they are yet speaking, I will hear.

Hosea 6:1

¶ Come, and let us return unto the LORD: for he hath torn, and he will heal us; he hath smitten, and he will bind us up.