forgive my iniquity
The request for forgiveness acknowledges human sinfulness and the need for divine mercy. Iniquity refers to moral perversity or wrongdoing, indicating a deep awareness of personal sin. The concept of forgiveness is central to the biblical narrative, with the sacrificial system in the Old Testament foreshadowing the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ. The plea for forgiveness is echoed in the New Testament, such as in 1 John 1:9, where confession leads to cleansing and forgiveness through Christ.

for it is great
The psalmist's admission of the greatness of his iniquity reflects a profound humility and recognition of the severity of sin. This acknowledgment is crucial for genuine repentance and aligns with the biblical theme that all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). The greatness of sin underscores the need for a Savior, pointing to the redemptive work of Jesus Christ, who bore the sins of humanity. The recognition of one's sinfulness is a step towards receiving God's grace and mercy.

David begins by anchoring his plea in God’s reputation, not in his own merit. When he says, “For the sake of Your name,” he is appealing to God’s character—His faithfulness, holiness, and covenant love.

• Psalm 23:3 affirms, “He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness for the sake of His name.” God’s actions consistently uphold who He is.

• 1 Samuel 12:22 reminds Israel, “The LORD will not forsake His people, for the sake of His great name,” underscoring that God’s name is bound to His promises.

• Ezekiel 36:22–23 shows God acting for His name when His people have failed, proving the plea is solidly grounded in Scripture.

David knows that if God forgives him, God’s name will be honored as the name of the One who is gracious and true.

Using the covenant name “LORD” (YHWH) signals trust in the God who revealed Himself to Moses (Exodus 3:15) and made unbreakable promises to His people.

• Psalm 8:1 exclaims, “O LORD, our Lord, how majestic is Your name in all the earth!”—reminding us the covenant God is also sovereign over all creation.

• Psalm 86:5 states, “For You, O Lord, are good and forgiving, abounding in loving devotion to all who call upon You.” David addresses the very God whose nature is to forgive.

Invoking “LORD” makes this more than a generic cry for help; it is a covenant claim on God’s revealed, faithful character.

David does not minimize sin; he asks for full pardon. The word “forgive” pictures a lifting or removal of guilt.

• Psalm 32:5 echoes this: “I said, ‘I will confess my transgressions to the LORD,’ and You forgave the guilt of my sin.”

• Isaiah 55:7 urges, “Let the wicked forsake his way… and He will freely pardon,” showing God’s readiness to forgive when we turn to Him.

• 1 John 1:9 promises, “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us…”—tying New-Testament assurance to the same forgiving God David trusts.

Forgiveness here is total, cleansing the sinner so fellowship with God can be restored (Psalm 51:7–12).

David’s sin isn’t small; he owns its gravity. Confession that names the seriousness of sin actually magnifies grace.

• Psalm 38:4 admits, “My iniquities have overwhelmed me; they are a burden too heavy to bear.”

• Luke 18:13 records the tax collector beating his breast: “God, be merciful to me, a sinner!”—a posture Jesus commends.

• Romans 7:24 cries, “What a wretched man I am!” immediately followed by thanks to God through Christ (Romans 7:25), showing that awareness of great sin drives us to a greater Savior.

By acknowledging “it is great,” David rejects excuses and casts himself entirely on God’s mercy.

Psalm 25:11 models humble, confident prayer: David appeals to God’s own name and character, addresses the covenant LORD, seeks full forgiveness, and confesses the true weight of his sin. Because God’s reputation is tied to His mercy, sinners who come honestly—no matter how great their iniquity—can be sure He will forgive and uphold the honor of His name.