Psalm 51:2 Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin.
I bet you didn’t realize there were so many words for sin and wrongdoing. In today’s verse we see the term iniquity used, along with the word sin. Iniquity is not exactly the same as sin, but is closely related. Let’s define iniquity before exploring the verse more..
Iniquity is immoral behavior. When used in the biblical sense we are referring to a certain type of sin. It is often associated with breaking God’s law or deviating from His ways. In Hebrew the word is avon and is a distortion of what is good. This is usually always translated into English as iniquity. And it is very closely related to guilt.
The difference between iniquity and sin is not huge. Both mean lawlessness or wickedness. But they differ slightly. Sin means to fall short or miss the mark and is more of a general term used to describe wrongdoing. Iniquity is much deeper, referring to the sinner choosing to continue with their wicked ways without repentance.
Iniquity also has consequences. To atone for one’s iniquities they must bring their guilt before the Lord and make amends. This was done in the Old Testament through sacrifices and repentance at the Temple.
Making these amends ensures the sinner that their iniquities have been washed away. Iniquity is forgiven the same as sins or transgressions when the sinner repents and seeks God. Verses like today’s are great prayers to God because you can use them as examples for seeking forgiveness. Here we cry out to the Lord for forgiveness and ask to be washed and cleansed. Make this your prayer today.
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