Psalms 25:7 (KJV)

What does Psalms 25:7 mean?

Psalms 25:7 is a prayer asking God not to remember or hold against the speaker the sins and mistakes made in youth, but instead to remember the speaker with kindness and mercy. The verse appeals to God’s goodness, asking for forgiveness based on God’s character rather than the speaker’s past actions.

King David is speaking directly to the LORD, expressing regret over past wrongs and seeking forgiveness. The verse comes in the context of a larger prayer for guidance and mercy, where David acknowledges his faults and relies on God’s steadfast love. The focus is on God’s mercy (not strict justice), highlighting a humble and honest relationship between the speaker and God.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 25:7

• "Remember" (זָכַר, zakar, H2142): This word is used twice, first asking God not to "remember" sins and then to "remember" the speaker with mercy. It carries the sense of actively calling something to mind, not just passive memory.
• "Sins" (חַטָּאָה, chatta'ah, H2403): This word refers to offenses or failures, especially moral failings. Here, it highlights the speaker’s awareness of personal wrongdoing.
• "Transgressions" (פֶּשַׁע, pesha', H6588): This word often means willful rebellion or breaking of trust, suggesting more serious or intentional wrongdoing than "sins."
• "Mercy" (חֶסֶד, chesed, H2617): This word means steadfast love, kindness, or loyal love. David appeals to God’s chesed, emphasizing that forgiveness is rooted in God’s faithful character.
• "Goodness’" (טוּב, tuv, H2898): This word points to God’s inherent goodness or generosity, reinforcing that the request is based on who God is, not on the speaker’s merit.

Why Psalms 25:7 matters

• Psalms 25:7 clarifies that forgiveness in this prayer is sought not because the speaker deserves it, but because of God’s merciful and good nature.
• The verse distinguishes between different kinds of wrongdoing ("sins" and "transgressions"), showing an honest and thorough confession.
• This verse connects to the wider theme of Psalms 25, where David repeatedly asks for guidance and forgiveness, modeling humility and trust in God’s character rather than personal righteousness.