Psalms 51:5 - Understanding the Verse

Bible Verse: Psalms 51:5 - "Behold, I was shapen in iniquity; and in sin did my mother conceive me."

This poignant verse from Psalms speaks to the inherent nature of sin and the reality of humanity's fallen condition. Below, we summarize the insights drawn from respected public domain commentaries, including those by Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke.

Meaning and Interpretation

The verse encapsulates the theme of original sin and the doctrine of human depravity. It serves as a confession of sinfulness before God, highlighting that the inclination toward sin is rooted within all humans from the moment of conception.

Key Insights from Commentators

• Matthew Henry:

  Henry emphasizes that this verse reflects the universal nature of sin affecting all of humanity. From the beginning, even at birth, individuals carry the burden of sin, which requires divine grace for redemption.

• Albert Barnes:

  Barnes elaborates on the implications of this verse, noting that David's acknowledgment of his sinful nature underscores a critical aspect of human existence—man’s tendency toward sin and the need for repentance.

• Adam Clarke:

  Clarke delves into the grammatical structure, suggesting that "shapen in iniquity" indicates a continual process, stressing that sin is not merely an action but a condition inherent in humanity, demanding a transformative encounter with the divine.

Cross-References

Psalms 51:5 can be connected with several other Biblical texts that reinforce the themes of original sin and human depravity. Here are some relevant cross-references:

• Romans 3:23: "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God."
• Psalm 58:3: "The wicked are estranged from the womb; they go astray as soon as they be born, speaking lies."
• Ephesians 2:3: "Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others."
• Job 14:4: "Who can bring a clean thing out of an unclean? Not one."
• Isaiah 64:6: "But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags..."
• 1 John 1:8: "If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us."
• Genesis 8:21: "...for the imagination of man's heart is evil from his youth..."

Thematic Connections

This verse and its implications are echoed throughout the Bible, creating a rich tapestry of theological insights regarding sin, grace, and redemption. The following themes are prominent:

• The Nature of Sin: Understanding sin as a pervasive human condition.
• Repentance: The need for turning away from sin and seeking divine forgiveness.
• Grace: God's unmerited favor in redeeming the sinful.

Conclusion

Psalms 51:5 serves not only as a declaration of human unworthiness but also as an invitation to experience God’s mercy and grace. Understanding the intricate connections between this verse and others enhances our comprehension of salvation history and God's redemptive plan.

Tools for Cross-Referencing

For deeper Bible study, several tools can aid in effective cross-referencing:

• Bible Concordance: A comprehensive guide to finding verses by keywords.
• Bible Cross-Reference Guide: Tools that allow for thematic exploration of scripture.
• Cross-Reference Bible Study: Methods to deepen understanding through comparative analysis.
• Bible Reference Resources: Useful for sermon preparation and personal study.