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Book of Psalms - Chapter 51 - Verse 7

51:7
Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean: wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.

Meaning

In this verse, the psalmist is expressing a desire for spiritual cleansing and purification. The use of hyssop was common in the Old Testament for the purification of people and objects. The psalmist is essentially asking to be purified from sin and wrongdoing, to be made clean in the eyes of God. The imagery of being washed and becoming whiter than snow symbolizes a complete transformation, a fresh start, and a renewal of the soul. The psalmist is acknowledging their own sinfulness and the need for God's forgiveness and grace. The verse highlights the belief in the transformative power of God's mercy and the desire for a deep spiritual cleansing.

Theological Overview

One of the key phrases in this verse is "Purge me with hyssop." In the Old Testament, hyssop was a plant used for ceremonial cleansing. Its use in this context symbolizes the purification of the psalmist's soul. The word "purge" also implies a deep cleansing, not just surface level. This verse reflects the psalmist's desire for a thorough spiritual cleansing from sin. The phrase "whiter than snow" emphasizes the completeness and purity of this cleansing. Snow is often used in the Bible as a symbol of purity and forgiveness. The psalmist is asking for a restoration of their relationship with God through this process of cleansing and forgiveness. By using these vivid images, the verse highlights the transformative power of God's forgiveness and the efficacy of sincere repentance. Overall, this verse conveys the psalmist's deep desire for a spiritual renewal and restoration of their relationship with God through the symbolic act of cleansing with hyssop and washing.

American Standard Version

Purify me with hyssop, and I shall be clean: Wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.
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