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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>Psalm 51:1 Have mercy on me, O God, according to Your loving devotion; according to Your great compassion, blot out my transgressions.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/psalms/51-1.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/6/19_Psa_051_001.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Psalm 51:1 - Create in Me a Clean Heart, O God" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="Have mercy on me, O God, according to Your loving devotion; according to Your great compassion, blot out my transgressions." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/psalms/51-1.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/psalms/51-1.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/psalms/">Psalms</a> > <a href="/psalms/51.htm">Chapter 51</a> > Verse 1</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad1.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/psalms/50-23.htm" title="Psalm 50:23">◄</a> Psalm 51:1 <a href="/psalms/51-2.htm" title="Psalm 51:2">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Heb </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv">Verse<a href="/bsb/psalms/51.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><a href="/niv/psalms/51.htm">New International Version</a> For the director of music. A psalm of David. When the prophet Nathan came to him after David had committed adultery with Bathsheba. Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love; according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions. <a href="/nlt/psalms/51.htm">New Living Translation</a> Have mercy on me, O God, because of your unfailing love. Because of your great compassion, blot out the stain of my sins. <a href="/esv/psalms/51.htm">English Standard Version</a> Have mercy on me, O God, according to your steadfast love; according to your abundant mercy blot out my transgressions. <a href="/bsb/psalms/51.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> For the choirmaster. A Psalm of David. When Nathan the prophet came to him after his adultery with Bathsheba. Have mercy on me, O God, according to Your loving devotion; according to Your great compassion, blot out my transgressions. <a href="/kjv/psalms/51.htm">King James Bible</a> To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David, when Nathan the prophet came unto him, after he had gone in to Bathsheba. Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy lovingkindness: according unto the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions. <a href="/nkjv/psalms/51.htm">New King James Version</a> To the Chief Musician. A Psalm of David when Nathan the prophet went to him, after he had gone in to Bathsheba. Have mercy upon me, O God, According to Your lovingkindness; According to the multitude of Your tender mercies, Blot out my transgressions. <a href="/nasb_/psalms/51.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> For the music director. A Psalm of David, when Nathan the prophet came to him, after he had gone in to Bathsheba. Be gracious to me, God, according to Your faithfulness; According to the greatness of Your compassion, wipe out my wrongdoings. <a href="/nasb/psalms/51.htm">NASB 1995</a> For the choir director. A Psalm of David, when Nathan the prophet came to him, after he had gone in to Bathsheba. Be gracious to me, O God, according to Your lovingkindness; According to the greatness of Your compassion blot out my transgressions. <a href="/nasb77/psalms/51.htm">NASB 1977 </a> Be gracious to me, O God, according to Thy lovingkindness; According to the greatness of Thy compassion blot out my transgressions. <a href="/lsb/psalms/51.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> For the choir director. A Psalm of David. When Nathan the prophet came to him, after he had gone in to Bathsheba. Be gracious to me, O God, according to Your lovingkindness; According to the abundance of Your compassion blot out my transgressions. <a href="/amp/psalms/51.htm">Amplified Bible</a> To the Chief Musician. A Psalm of David; when Nathan the prophet came to him after he had sinned with Bathsheba. Have mercy on me, O God, according to Your lovingkindness; According to the greatness of Your compassion blot out my transgressions. <a href="/csb/psalms/51.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> For the choir director. A psalm of David, when the prophet Nathan came to him after he had gone to Bathsheba. † Be gracious to me, God, according to your faithful love; according to your abundant compassion, blot out my rebellion. <a href="/hcsb/psalms/51.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> For the choir director. A Davidic psalm, when Nathan the prophet came to him after he had gone to Bathsheba. Be gracious to me, God, according to Your faithful love; according to Your abundant compassion, blot out my rebellion. <a href="/asv/psalms/51.htm">American Standard Version</a> For the Chief Musician. A Psalm of David; when Nathan the prophet came unto him, after he had gone in to Bath-sheba. Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy lovingkindness: According to the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions. <a href="/cev/psalms/51.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> You are kind, God! Please have pity on me. You are always merciful! Please wipe away my sins. <a href="/erv/psalms/51.htm">English Revised Version</a> For the Chief Musician. A psalm of David: when Nathan the prophet came unto him, after he had gone in to Bath-sheba. Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy lovingkindness; according to the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions. <a href="/gwt/psalms/51.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> [For the choir director; a psalm by David when the prophet Nathan came to him after David's adultery with Bathsheba.] Have pity on me, O God, in keeping with your mercy. In keeping with your unlimited compassion, wipe out my rebellious acts. <a href="/gnt/psalms/51.htm">Good News Translation</a> Be merciful to me, O God, because of your constant love. Because of your great mercy wipe away my sins! <a href="/isv/psalms/51.htm">International Standard Version</a> Have mercy, God, according to your gracious love, according to your unlimited compassion, erase my transgressions. <a href="/msb/psalms/51.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> For the choirmaster. A Psalm of David. When Nathan the prophet came to him after his adultery with Bathsheba. Have mercy on me, O God, according to Your loving devotion; according to Your great compassion, blot out my transgressions. <a href="/net/psalms/51.htm">NET Bible</a> For the music director; a psalm of David, written when Nathan the prophet confronted him after David's affair with Bathsheba. Have mercy on me, O God, because of your loyal love! Because of your great compassion, wipe away my rebellious acts! <a href="/nheb/psalms/51.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> [For the Chief Musician. A Psalm by David, when Nathan the prophet came to him, after he had gone in to Bathsheba.] Have mercy on me, God, according to your loving kindness. According to the multitude of your tender mercies, blot out my transgressions. <a href="/wbt/psalms/51.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David, when Nathan the prophet came to him, after he had gone in to Bath-sheba. Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy loving-kindness: according to the multitude of thy tender mercies, blot out my transgressions. <a href="/web/psalms/51.htm">World English Bible</a> For the Chief Musician. A Psalm by David, when Nathan the prophet came to him, after he had gone in to Bathsheba. Have mercy on me, God, according to your loving kindness. According to the multitude of your tender mercies, blot out my transgressions. <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/psalms/51.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> TO THE OVERSEER. A PSALM OF DAVID, IN THE COMING OF NATHAN THE PROPHET TO HIM WHEN HE HAS GONE IN TO BATHSHEBA. Favor me, O God, according to Your kindness, "" According to the abundance of Your mercies, "" Blot out my transgressions. <a href="/ylt/psalms/51.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> To the Overseer. -- A Psalm of David, in the coming in unto him of Nathan the prophet, when he hath gone in unto Bath-Sheba. Favour me, O God, according to Thy kindness, According to the abundance of Thy mercies, Blot out my transgressions. <a href="/slt/psalms/51.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> To the overseer: chanting to David; In the coming to him of Nathan the prophet, when he went in to Bathsheba. Compassionate me, O God, according to thy mercy: according to the Multitude of thy compassions wipe away my transgressions.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/psalms/51.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> Unto the end, a psalm of David, when Nathan the prophet came to him after he had sinned with Bethsabee. Have mercy on me, O God, according to thy great mercy. And according to the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my iniquity. <a href="/cpdv/psalms/51.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> <V 50:1>Unto the end. A Psalm of David, <V 50:2>when Nathan the prophet came to him, after he went to Bathsheba. <V 50:3>Be merciful to me, O God, according to your great mercy. And, according to the plentitude of your compassion, wipe out my iniquity. <a href="/nabre/psalms/51.htm">New American Bible</a> For the leader. A psalm of David, [2] when Nathan the prophet came to him after he had gone in to Bathsheba. [3] Have mercy on me, God, in accord with your merciful love; in your abundant compassion blot out my transgressions. <a href="/nrsvce/psalms/51.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> Have mercy on me, O God, according to your steadfast love; according to your abundant mercy blot out my transgressions.<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/psalms/51.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> HAVE mercy upon me, O God, according to thy lovingkindness; according to the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my sins. <a href="/hpbt/psalms/51.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a> Show mercy upon me, oh God, according to your kindness, and according to the multitude of your mercies, blot out my sins!<div class="vheading2">OT Translations</div><a href="/jps/psalms/51.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a> For the Leader. A Psalm of David; when Nathan the prophet came unto him, after he had gone in to Bath-sheba. Be gracious unto me, O God, according to Thy mercy; According to the multitude of Thy compassions blot out my transgressions. <a href="/sep/psalms/51.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a> For the end, a Psalm of David, when Nathan the prophet came to him, when he had gone to Bersabee. Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy great mercy; and according to the multitude of thy compassions blot out my transgression. <a href="/parallel/psalms/51-1.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/nFaD2oDhKPc?start=6026" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/psalms/51.htm">Create in Me a Clean Heart, O God</a> 1<a href="/hebrew/5329.htm" title="5329: lam·naṣ·ṣê·aḥ (Prep-l, Art:: V-Piel-Prtcpl-ms) -- Preeminent or enduring. A primitive root; properly, to glitter from afar, i.e. To be eminent; also, to be permanent.">For the choirmaster.</a> <a href="/hebrew/4210.htm" title="4210: miz·mō·wr (N-ms) -- A melody. From zamar; properly, instrumental music; by implication, a poem set to notes.">A Psalm</a> <a href="/hebrew/1732.htm" title="1732: lə·ḏā·wiḏ (Prep-l:: N-proper-ms) -- Perhaps beloved one, a son of Jesse. Rarely; Daviyd; from the same as dowd; loving; David, the youngest son of Jesse.">of David.</a> <a href="/hebrew/5416.htm" title="5416: nā·ṯān (N-proper-ms) -- The name of a number of Isr. From nathan; given; Nathan, the name of five Israelites.">When Nathan</a> <a href="/hebrew/5030.htm" title="5030: han·nā·ḇî (Art:: N-ms) -- A spokesman, speaker, prophet. From naba'; a prophet or inspired man.">the prophet</a> <a href="/hebrew/935.htm" title="935: bə·ḇō·w- (Prep-b:: V-Qal-Inf) -- To come in, come, go in, go. A primitive root; to go or come.">came</a> <a href="/hebrew/413.htm" title="413: ’ê·lāw (Prep:: 3ms) -- To, into, towards. ">to him</a> <a href="/hebrew/834.htm" title="834: ka·’ă·šer- (Prep-k:: Pro-r) -- Who, which, that. A primitive relative pronoun; who, which, what, that; also when, where, how, because, in order that, etc.">after</a> <a href="/hebrew/935.htm" title="935: bā (V-Qal-Perf-3ms) -- To come in, come, go in, go. A primitive root; to go or come.">his adultery</a> <a href="/hebrew/413.htm" title="413: ’el- (Prep) -- To, into, towards. ">with</a> <a href="/hebrew/1339.htm" title="1339: baṯ- (Prep) -- From bath and sheba'; daughter of an oath; Bath-Sheba, the mother of Solomon."></a> <a href="/hebrew/1339.htm" title="1339: šā·ḇa‘ (N-proper-fs) -- From bath and sheba'; daughter of an oath; Bath-Sheba, the mother of Solomon.">Bathsheba.</a> <a href="/hebrew/2603.htm" title="2603: ḥān·nê·nî (V-Qal-Imp-ms:: 1cs) -- A primitive root; properly, to bend or stoop in kindness to an inferior; to favor, bestow; causatively to implore."> Have mercy on me,</a> <a href="/hebrew/430.htm" title="430: ’ĕ·lō·hîm (N-mp) -- Plural of 'elowahh; gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used of the supreme God">O God,</a> <a href="/hebrew/2617.htm" title="2617: kə·ḥas·de·ḵā (Prep-k:: N-msc:: 2ms) -- Kindness, piety, reproof, beauty. From chacad; kindness; by implication piety: rarely reproof, or Beauty.">according to Your loving devotion;</a> <a href="/hebrew/7230.htm" title="7230: kə·rōḇ (Prep-k:: N-msc) -- Multitude, abundance, greatness. From rabab; abundance.">according to Your great</a> <a href="/hebrew/7356.htm" title="7356: ra·ḥă·me·ḵā (N-mpc:: 2ms) -- Compassion. From racham; compassion; by extension, the womb; by implication, a maiden.">compassion,</a> <a href="/hebrew/4229.htm" title="4229: mə·ḥêh (V-Qal-Imp-ms) -- To stroke, rub, to erase, to smooth, grease, make fat, to touch, reach to.">blot out</a> <a href="/hebrew/6588.htm" title="6588: p̄ə·šā·‘āy (N-mpc:: 1cs) -- Transgression. From pasha'; a revolt.">my transgressions.</a> 2Wash me clean of my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/1_john/1-9.htm">1 John 1:9</a> If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. <a href="/isaiah/1-18.htm">Isaiah 1:18</a> “Come now, let us reason together,” says the LORD. “Though your sins are like scarlet, they will be as white as snow; though they are as red as crimson, they will become like wool. <a href="/luke/18-13.htm">Luke 18:13</a> But the tax collector stood at a distance, unwilling even to lift up his eyes to heaven. Instead, he beat his breast and said, ‘God, have mercy on me, a sinner!’ <a href="/ephesians/1-7.htm">Ephesians 1:7</a> In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace <a href="/titus/3-5.htm">Titus 3:5</a> He saved us, not by the righteous deeds we had done, but according to His mercy, through the washing of new birth and renewal by the Holy Spirit. <a href="/1_timothy/1-15.htm">1 Timothy 1:15</a> This is a trustworthy saying, worthy of full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the worst. <a href="/romans/3-23.htm">Romans 3:23-24</a> for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, / and are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus. <a href="/matthew/9-13.htm">Matthew 9:13</a> But go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’ For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.” <a href="/hebrews/8-12.htm">Hebrews 8:12</a> For I will forgive their iniquities and will remember their sins no more.” <a href="/acts/3-19.htm">Acts 3:19</a> Repent, then, and turn back, so that your sins may be wiped away, <a href="/micah/7-18.htm">Micah 7:18-19</a> Who is a God like You, who pardons iniquity and passes over the transgression of the remnant of His inheritance—who does not retain His anger forever, because He delights in loving devotion? / He will again have compassion on us; He will vanquish our iniquities. You will cast out all our sins into the depths of the sea. <a href="/isaiah/55-7.htm">Isaiah 55:7</a> Let the wicked man forsake his way and the unrighteous man his thoughts; let him return to the LORD, that He may have compassion, and to our God, for He will freely pardon. <a href="/exodus/34-6.htm">Exodus 34:6-7</a> Then the LORD passed in front of Moses and called out: “The LORD, the LORD God, is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in loving devotion and faithfulness, / maintaining loving devotion to a thousand generations, forgiving iniquity, transgression, and sin. Yet He will by no means leave the guilty unpunished; He will visit the iniquity of the fathers on their children and grandchildren to the third and fourth generations.” <a href="/nehemiah/9-17.htm">Nehemiah 9:17</a> They refused to listen and failed to remember the wonders You performed among them. They stiffened their necks and appointed a leader to return them to their bondage in Egypt. But You are a forgiving God, gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and rich in loving devotion, and You did not forsake them. <a href="/joel/2-13.htm">Joel 2:13</a> So rend your hearts and not your garments, and return to the LORD your God. For He is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger, abounding in loving devotion. And He relents from sending disaster.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>Have mercy on me, O God, according to your loving kindness: according to the multitude of your tender mercies blot out my transgressions.A.<a href="/2_samuel/12-1.htm">2 Samuel 12:1-13</a> And the LORD sent Nathan unto David. And he came unto him, and said unto him, There were two men in one city; the one rich, and the other poor… after<a href="/2_samuel/11-2.htm">2 Samuel 11:2</a> And it came to pass in an eveningtide, that David arose from off his bed, and walked upon the roof of the king's house: and from the roof he saw a woman washing herself; and the woman was very beautiful to look upon.O God<a href="/psalms/25-6.htm">Psalm 25:6,7</a> Remember, O LORD, thy tender mercies and thy lovingkindnesses; for they have been ever of old… <a href="/psalms/109-21.htm">Psalm 109:21</a> But do thou for me, O GOD the Lord, for thy name's sake: because thy mercy is good, deliver thou me.<a href="/psalms/119-124.htm">Psalm 119:124</a> Deal with thy servant according unto thy mercy, and teach me thy statutes.multitude<a href="/psalms/5-7.htm">Psalm 5:7</a> But as for me, I will come into thy house in the multitude of thy mercy: and in thy fear will I worship toward thy holy temple.<a href="/psalms/69-13.htm">Psalm 69:13,16</a> But as for me, my prayer is unto thee, O LORD, in an acceptable time: O God, in the multitude of thy mercy hear me, in the truth of thy salvation… <a href="/psalms/106-7.htm">Psalm 106:7,45</a> Our fathers understood not thy wonders in Egypt; they remembered not the multitude of thy mercies; but provoked him at the sea, even at the Red sea… tender<a href="/psalms/40-11.htm">Psalm 40:11</a> Withhold not thou thy tender mercies from me, O LORD: let thy lovingkindness and thy truth continually preserve me.<a href="/psalms/77-9.htm">Psalm 77:9</a> Hath God forgotten to be gracious? hath he in anger shut up his tender mercies? Selah.<a href="/psalms/145-9.htm">Psalm 145:9</a> The LORD is good to all: and his tender mercies are over all his works.blot<a href="/psalms/50-9.htm">Psalm 50:9</a> I will take no bullock out of thy house, nor he goats out of thy folds.<a href="/nehemiah/4-5.htm">Nehemiah 4:5</a> And cover not their iniquity, and let not their sin be blotted out from before thee: for they have provoked thee to anger before the builders.<a href="/isaiah/43-25.htm">Isaiah 43:25</a> I, even I, am he that blotteth out thy transgressions for mine own sake, and will not remember thy sins.<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/psalms/49-16.htm">Abundant</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/5-18.htm">Adultery</a> <a href="/psalms/50-23.htm">Bathsheba</a> <a href="/job/31-7.htm">Blot</a> <a href="/psalms/50-23.htm">Chief</a> <a href="/psalms/22-8.htm">Committed</a> <a href="/psalms/40-11.htm">Compassion</a> <a href="/psalms/50-23.htm">David</a> <a href="/psalms/49-1.htm">Director</a> <a href="/psalms/41-10.htm">Gracious</a> <a href="/psalms/34-3.htm">Greatness</a> <a href="/psalms/48-9.htm">Kindness</a> <a href="/psalms/49-1.htm">Leader</a> <a href="/psalms/48-9.htm">Loving</a> <a href="/psalms/44-26.htm">Mercies</a> <a href="/psalms/48-9.htm">Mercy</a> <a href="/psalms/49-6.htm">Multitude</a> <a href="/psalms/49-4.htm">Music</a> <a href="/psalms/50-23.htm">Musician</a> <a href="/psalms/50-23.htm">Nathan</a> <a href="/psalms/50-23.htm">Prophet</a> <a href="/psalms/50-23.htm">Psalm</a> <a href="/psalms/48-9.htm">Steadfast</a> <a href="/psalms/40-11.htm">Tender</a> <a href="/psalms/39-8.htm">Transgressions</a> <a href="/psalms/48-9.htm">Unfailing</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/psalms/68-9.htm">Abundant</a> <a href="/proverbs/6-32.htm">Adultery</a> <a href="/matthew/1-6.htm">Bathsheba</a> <a href="/psalms/51-9.htm">Blot</a> <a href="/psalms/51-19.htm">Chief</a> <a href="/psalms/53-1.htm">Committed</a> <a href="/psalms/69-16.htm">Compassion</a> <a href="/psalms/51-19.htm">David</a> <a href="/psalms/52-1.htm">Director</a> <a href="/psalms/56-1.htm">Gracious</a> <a href="/psalms/66-3.htm">Greatness</a> <a href="/psalms/52-1.htm">Kindness</a> <a href="/psalms/53-1.htm">Leader</a> <a href="/psalms/52-1.htm">Loving</a> <a href="/psalms/69-16.htm">Mercies</a> <a href="/psalms/52-8.htm">Mercy</a> <a href="/psalms/55-18.htm">Multitude</a> <a href="/psalms/53-1.htm">Music</a> <a href="/psalms/51-19.htm">Musician</a> <a href="/zechariah/12-12.htm">Nathan</a> <a href="/psalms/74-9.htm">Prophet</a> <a href="/psalms/51-19.htm">Psalm</a> <a href="/psalms/51-10.htm">Steadfast</a> <a href="/psalms/69-16.htm">Tender</a> <a href="/psalms/51-3.htm">Transgressions</a> <a href="/psalms/52-8.htm">Unfailing</a><div class="vheading2">Psalm 51</div>1. <a href="/psalms/51-1.htm">David prays for remission of sins, whereof he makes a deep confession</a> 6. <a href="/psalms/51-6.htm">He prays for sanctification</a> 16. <a href="/psalms/51-16.htm">God delights not in sacrifice, but in sincerity</a> 18. <a href="/psalms/51-18.htm">He prays for the church</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/psalms/51.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/psalms/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/psalms/51.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>For the choirmaster. This phrase indicates that the psalm was intended for public worship and was to be directed by the choirmaster. In ancient Israel, the role of the choirmaster was crucial in leading the congregation in song and worship. This suggests that the themes of repentance and forgiveness in this psalm were meant to be shared and internalized by the community.A Psalm of David. David, the second king of Israel, is traditionally credited with composing many of the psalms. His life, marked by both profound faith and significant moral failings, provides a rich backdrop for understanding the depth of his repentance. This psalm is a personal reflection of his relationship with God, showcasing his understanding of divine grace and mercy.When Nathan the prophet came to him after his adultery with Bathsheba. This historical context is crucial for understanding the psalm. Nathan's confrontation with David is recorded in <a href="/2_samuel/12.htm">2 Samuel 12</a>, where Nathan uses a parable to reveal David's sin. This moment is pivotal in David's life, leading to his deep repentance. The cultural context of the time viewed adultery as a grave sin, and David's actions had severe consequences, both personally and for his kingdom.Have mercy on me, O God, David's plea for mercy reflects his awareness of his sin and his need for divine forgiveness. The Hebrew word for mercy here conveys a deep sense of compassion and loving-kindness. This appeal to God's mercy is a central theme in the Old Testament, where God's character is often described as merciful and gracious.according to Your loving devotion; The term "loving devotion" is often translated as "steadfast love" or "covenant faithfulness." It refers to God's unwavering commitment to His people, rooted in the covenant He established with Israel. This phrase underscores the belief that God's mercy is not arbitrary but is based on His faithful character.according to Your great compassion, The word "compassion" here emphasizes God's tender mercy and willingness to forgive. It is a reminder of God's empathetic nature, as seen throughout the scriptures, where He is portrayed as a compassionate Father who understands human frailty.blot out my transgressions. The imagery of "blotting out" suggests the removal or erasure of sin, akin to wiping a slate clean. This reflects the biblical concept of forgiveness, where God not only forgives but also forgets the sins of those who repent. This idea is echoed in other scriptures, such as <a href="/isaiah/43-25.htm">Isaiah 43:25</a>, where God promises to remember sins no more. David's request highlights his desire for a restored relationship with God, free from the burden of his past sins.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/d/david.htm">David</a> The author of <a href="/bsb/psalms/51.htm">Psalm 51</a>, King David, wrote this psalm as a heartfelt plea for mercy after being confronted by the prophet Nathan regarding his sin with Bathsheba. 2. <a href="/topical/g/god.htm">God</a> The recipient of David's plea, God is portrayed as merciful and compassionate, willing to forgive those who genuinely repent. 3. <a href="/topical/n/nathan_the_prophet.htm">Nathan the Prophet</a> Although not directly mentioned in this verse, Nathan's confrontation with David is the catalyst for the writing of this psalm. 4. <a href="/topical/b/bathsheba.htm">Bathsheba</a> Her involvement with David is the context for the sin that David is repenting for in this psalm. 5. <a href="/topical/j/jerusalem.htm">Jerusalem</a> The city where David reigned as king and where these events took place.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/u/understanding_god's_mercy.htm">Understanding God's Mercy</a> Recognize that God's mercy is not based on our merit but on His loving devotion and compassion. This understanding should lead us to approach Him with humility and confidence in His willingness to forgive. <a href="/topical/t/the_importance_of_repentance.htm">The Importance of Repentance</a> True repentance involves acknowledging our sins and turning away from them. David's example shows us the importance of coming before God with a contrite heart. <a href="/topical/g/god's_compassionate_nature.htm">God's Compassionate Nature</a> Reflect on the nature of God as compassionate and loving. This should encourage us to seek His forgiveness and strive to emulate His compassion in our interactions with others. <a href="/topical/t/the_power_of_confession.htm">The Power of Confession</a> Confession is a powerful act that brings us back into right relationship with God. It is a necessary step in the process of repentance and restoration. <a href="/topical/l/living_a_life_of_integrity.htm">Living a Life of Integrity</a> David's failure and subsequent repentance remind us of the importance of living a life of integrity and the consequences of straying from God's commandments.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_psalm_51.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Psalm 51</a> <a href="/q/bible's_advice_on_handling_regrets.htm">What does the Bible say about dealing with regrets?</a> <a href="/q/what_does_'blot_out'_mean.htm">What does "Blot Out Our Transgressions" mean?</a> <a href="/q/why_did_simon_doubt_jesus'_acceptance.htm">What does 'Blot Out Our Transgressions' mean?</a> <a href="/q/does_the_bible_support_written_prayers.htm">Are written prayers supported by the Bible?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/psalms/51.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(1) Blot out.--The figure is most probably, as in <a href="/context/exodus/32-32.htm" title="Yet now, if you will forgive their sin--; and if not, blot me, I pray you, out of your book which you have written.">Exodus 32:32-33</a>, taken from the custom of erasing a written record (comp. <a href="/numbers/5-23.htm" title="And the priest shall write these curses in a book, and he shall blot them out with the bitter water:">Numbers 5:23</a>; <a href="/psalms/69-28.htm" title="Let them be blotted out of the book of the living, and not be written with the righteous.">Psalm 69:28</a>). So LXX. and Vulg. Isaiah, however (<a href="/isaiah/44-22.htm" title="I have blotted out, as a thick cloud, your transgressions, and, as a cloud, your sins: return to me; for I have redeemed you.">Isaiah 44:22</a>) uses the same word in a different connection, "I will blot out thy sins as a cloud." A fine thought that the error and guilt that cloud the mind and conscience can be cleared off like a mist by a breath from heaven.Transgressions.--See <a href="/psalms/32-1.htm" title="Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered.">Psalm 32:1</a>. The word seems to imply a wilful throwing off of authority or restraint, perhaps here the breach of the covenant-relation irrespective of any particular sin by which the breach was brought about. Whether it is an individual or the community that speaks, the prayer is that Jehovah would act according to His chesed or covenant-favour towards the suppliant, and wipe out from His records whatever has intervened between the covenant parties. . . . <div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/psalms/51.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 1. - Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy loving-kindness. It is observable that the whole psalm is addressed to God (Elohim), and not to Jehovah (the "Lord" in ver. 15 is Adonai), as though the psalmist felt himself unworthy to utter the covenant-name, and simply prostrated himself as a guilty man before his offended Maker. It is not correet to say that "loving-kindness implies a covenant" (Cheyne), since God is "good to all, and his tender mercies are over all his works" (<a href="/psalms/145-9.htm">Psalm 145:9</a>). According unto the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions. David's first prayer is for pity; his second, to have his offences "blotted out," or "wiped out" - entirely removed from God's book (comp. <a href="/exodus/32-32.htm">Exodus 32:32</a>; <a href="/isaiah/43-25.htm">Isaiah 43:25</a>; <a href="/isaiah/44-22.htm">Isaiah 44:22</a>). He says "my transgressions," in the plural, because "his great sin did not stand alone - adultery was followed by treachery and murder" (Canon Cook). <a href="/commentaries/psalms/51-1.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Hebrew</div>For the choirmaster. לַמְנַצֵּ֗חַ (lam·naṣ·ṣê·aḥ) Preposition-l, Article | Verb - Piel - Participle - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5329.htm">Strong's 5329: </a> To glitter from afar, to be eminent, to be permanent A Psalm מִזְמ֥וֹר (miz·mō·wr) Noun - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_4210.htm">Strong's 4210: </a> Instrumental music, a poem set to notes of David. לְדָוִֽד׃ (lə·ḏā·wiḏ) Preposition-l | Noun - proper - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1732.htm">Strong's 1732: </a> David -- perhaps 'beloved one', a son of Jesse When Nathan נָתָ֣ן (nā·ṯān) Noun - proper - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5416.htm">Strong's 5416: </a> Nathan -- the name of a number of Israelites the prophet הַנָּבִ֑יא (han·nā·ḇî) Article | Noun - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5030.htm">Strong's 5030: </a> A spokesman, speaker, prophet came בְּֽבוֹא־ (bə·ḇō·w-) Preposition-b | Verb - Qal - Infinitive construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_935.htm">Strong's 935: </a> To come in, come, go in, go to him אֵ֭לָיו (’ê·lāw) Preposition | third person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_413.htm">Strong's 413: </a> Near, with, among, to after כַּֽאֲשֶׁר־ (ka·’ă·šer-) Preposition-k | Pronoun - relative <a href="/hebrew/strongs_834.htm">Strong's 834: </a> Who, which, what, that, when, where, how, because, in order that his adultery בָּ֝֗א (bā) Verb - Qal - Perfect - third person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_935.htm">Strong's 935: </a> To come in, come, go in, go with אֶל־ (’el-) Preposition <a href="/hebrew/strongs_413.htm">Strong's 413: </a> Near, with, among, to Bathsheba. שָֽׁבַע׃ (šā·ḇa‘) Noun - proper - feminine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1339.htm">Strong's 1339: </a> Bathsheba -- perhaps 'daughter of oath', the mother of Solomon Have mercy on me, חָנֵּ֣נִי (ḥān·nê·nî) Verb - Qal - Imperative - masculine singular | first person common singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_2603.htm">Strong's 2603: </a> To bend, stoop in kindness to an inferior, to favor, bestow, to implore O God, אֱלֹהִ֣ים (’ĕ·lō·hîm) Noun - masculine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_430.htm">Strong's 430: </a> gods -- the supreme God, magistrates, a superlative according to Your loving devotion; כְּחַסְדֶּ֑ךָ (kə·ḥas·de·ḵā) Preposition-k | Noun - masculine singular construct | second person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_2617.htm">Strong's 2617: </a> Kindness, piety, reproof, beauty according to Your great כְּרֹ֥ב (kə·rōḇ) Preposition-k | Noun - masculine singular construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_7230.htm">Strong's 7230: </a> Multitude, abundance, greatness compassion, רַ֝חֲמֶ֗יךָ (ra·ḥă·me·ḵā) Noun - masculine plural construct | second person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_7356.htm">Strong's 7356: </a> Compassion, the womb, a maiden blot out מְחֵ֣ה (mə·ḥêh) Verb - Qal - Imperative - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_4229.htm">Strong's 4229: </a> To stroke, rub, to erase, to smooth, grease, make fat, to touch, reach to my transgressions. פְשָׁעָֽי׃ (p̄ə·šā·‘āy) Noun - masculine plural construct | first person common singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_6588.htm">Strong's 6588: </a> Transgression <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/psalms/51-1.htm">Psalm 51:1 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/psalms/51-1.htm">Psalm 51:1 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/psalms/51-1.htm">Psalm 51:1 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/psalms/51-1.htm">Psalm 51:1 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/psalms/51-1.htm">Psalm 51:1 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/psalms/51-1.htm">Psalm 51:1 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/psalms/51-1.htm">Psalm 51:1 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/psalms/51-1.htm">Psalm 51:1 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/psalms/51-1.htm">Psalm 51:1 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/psalms/51-1.htm">Psalm 51:1 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/psalms/51-1.htm">OT Poetry: Psalm 51:1 For the Chief Musician (Psalm Ps Psa.) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/psalms/50-23.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Psalm 50:23"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Psalm 50:23" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/psalms/51-2.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Psalm 51:2"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Psalm 51:2" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>