my transgressions
The term "transgressions" comes from the Hebrew "פֶּשַׁע" (pesha), which refers to rebellion or a willful violation of God's law. This word choice underscores the gravity of David's actions, acknowledging that his sins are not mere mistakes but deliberate acts of disobedience. Historically, David's transgressions, particularly his sin with Bathsheba and the subsequent murder of Uriah, are well-documented in the biblical narrative. This acknowledgment of transgressions is crucial in the conservative Christian understanding of sin, emphasizing the need for confession and the seriousness of rebelling against God's commandments.

and my sin
The Hebrew word for "sin" is "חַטָּאָה" (chatta'ah), which means to miss the mark. This term conveys the idea of falling short of God's standards. In the broader scriptural context, sin is seen as a universal human condition, as all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). David's use of "my sin" personalizes this condition, showing his ownership and responsibility for his actions. This personal ownership is a key aspect of repentance in the conservative Christian tradition, where acknowledging one's sin is essential for seeking God's forgiveness.

is always before me
The phrase "is always before me" indicates a continual awareness and presence of sin in David's life. The Hebrew word "תָּמִיד" (tamid) suggests something that is constant and unceasing. This reflects the inescapable nature of guilt and the burden of unconfessed sin. In the historical context, David's sin had far-reaching consequences, affecting his family and kingdom. From a conservative Christian viewpoint, this phrase serves as a reminder of the persistent nature of sin and the need for ongoing repentance and reliance on God's grace for cleansing and restoration. It underscores the importance of living a life of continual self-examination and humility before God.

The thought that he had been unfaithful to the covenant was an accusing conscience to him, keeping his sin always before his eyes, and until, according to his prayer in Psalm 51:1-2, he was received back into conscious relationship again, his offence must weigh upon his mind. This explanation holds, whether an individual or the community speaks.