Psalms 51 · Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
PSALM 51 Psa 51:1-19 . On the occasion, compare 2Sa 11:12 . The Psalm illustrates true repentance, in which are comprised conviction, confession, sorrow, prayer for mercy, and purposes of amendment, and it is accompanied by a lively faith. 1-4. A plea for mercy is a confession of guilt. blot out-- as from a register. transgressions-- literally, "rebellions" ( Psa 19:13 ; 32:1 ).
5-6. His guilt was aggravated by his essential, native sinfulness, which is as contrary to God's requisitions of inward purity as are outward sins to those for right conduct.
7-12. A series of prayers for forgiveness and purifying. Purge ... hyssop-- The use of this plant in the ritual ( Ex 12:22 ; Nu 19:6 , 18 ) suggests the idea of atonement as prominent here; "purge" refers to vicarious satisfaction ( Nu 19:17-20 ).
13. Then-- Such will be the effect of this gracious work. ways-- of providence and human duty ( Psa 18:21 , 30 ; 32:8 ; Lu 22:32 ).
14. Deliver-- or, "Free me" ( Psa 39:8 ) from the guilt of murder ( 2Sa 12:9 , 10 ; Psa 5:6 ). righteousness-- as in Psa 7:17 ; 31:1 .
15. open ... lips-- by removing my sense of guilt.
16. Praise is better than sacrifice ( Psa 50:14 ), and implying faith, penitence, and love, glorifies God. In true penitents the joys of pardon mingle with sorrow for sin.
18. Do good, &c.-- Visit not my sin on Thy Church. build ... walls-- is to show favor; compare Psa 89:40 , for opposite form and idea.