Psalms 25:11 Meaning and Explanation
“For thy name's sake, O LORD, pardon mine iniquity; for it is great.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The psalmist asks God to forgive his serious sin for the sake of God's reputation.
The Context of Psalms 25:11
Confession of serious sin with an appeal for forgiveness grounded in God's reputation.
What Does Psalms 25:11 Mean?
The psalmist returns to confession: his iniquity is great. Rather than minimize or excuse it, he acknowledges its weight. Yet he does not base his plea on his merit; instead, he appeals to God's name—God's character, renown, and covenant commitment to His people.
To pardon 'for thy name's sake' means to forgive in order to uphold God's own honor. A God who abandons His people to their sin would be viewed as unloving or powerless. By pardoning, God demonstrates His character as merciful and faithful, which brings Him honor among His people and creation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Psalms 25:11
What does Psalms 25:11 mean?
The psalmist asks God to forgive his serious sin for the sake of God's reputation.
What is the context of Psalms 25:11?
Confession of serious sin with an appeal for forgiveness grounded in God's reputation.