In the Jewish Study Bible, Psalm 51 begins with these words:
For the leader. A psalm of David when Nathan the prophet came to him after he had come to Bathsheba.
By Jewish tradition, this psalm reflects David's confession and repentance when confronted by Nathan -- see the posting here about that story in 2 Samuel.
But biblical scholars think it more likely that the psalm was composed in the period of or after the exile to Babylon.
In any case, the psalm reflect a deep understanding of the human sense of guilt, and asks God's help, by asking for: mercy (v. 1); blotting out of transgressions (2); washing and purification (2); purging (7).
Every reading reveals new insights into scripture. This time I noticed that on the one hand the psalm prays that I may have greater insight into my sins, that I be taught "wisdom in my secret heart." On the other hand I pray that God not look at my sins - that He "hide his face" from my iniquities.
This psalm is an essential part of our Ash Wednesday liturgy. What do you see that you hadn't noticed before?
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