Old Testament

Psalms 85:2

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In this verse, the psalmist acknowledges God's forgiveness towards His people.

Author: David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, and others
Written: Around 1000-500 BC
Genre: Poetry and worship
Original Audience: Worshipers of Israel

CBTClear Bible Translation

You have forgiven the iniquity of your people; you have covered all their sin. Selah.

KJVKing James Version

Thou hast forgiven the iniquity of thy people, thou hast covered all their sin. Selah.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, the psalmist acknowledges God's forgiveness towards His people. The term 'iniquity' refers to moral wrongdoing or sin, and the act of covering sin signifies God's grace in not holding these wrongdoings against them. The use of 'Selah' suggests a pause for reflection, emphasizing the importance of recognizing God's mercy. This verse highlights the relationship between God and His people, illustrating that despite their failings, God chooses to forgive and restore them. It reassures believers that no matter how far they stray, God's willingness to forgive is always present. This forgiveness is not just a one-time act but a continual aspect of God's character, inviting His people to return to Him with repentance and faith. The verse serves as a reminder of the hope and renewal that comes from God's grace, encouraging believers to trust in His mercy and to seek reconciliation with Him.

Key themes

Related Bible verses

How to apply Psalms 85:2 to your life

This verse encourages us to embrace God's forgiveness in our own lives. When we acknowledge our mistakes and seek His mercy, we can experience true restoration. It reminds us to extend grace to others, reflecting the forgiveness we have received from God.

Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Psalms 85:2 mean by 'iniquity'?

In Psalms 85:2, 'iniquity' refers to moral wrongdoing or sin. It highlights the serious nature of our transgressions against God. The verse emphasizes that despite these wrongdoings, God chooses to forgive His people, showcasing His grace and mercy.

How does Psalms 85:2 illustrate God's forgiveness?

Psalms 85:2 illustrates God's forgiveness by stating that He has forgiven the iniquity of His people and covered all their sin. This means that God does not hold their sins against them, offering a fresh start and restoration. It reassures believers of God's continual willingness to forgive, no matter how far they stray.

What is the significance of 'Selah' in this verse?

The term 'Selah' in Psalms 85:2 serves as a pause for reflection. It invites readers to contemplate the profound truth of God's forgiveness and mercy. This moment of silence emphasizes the importance of recognizing and appreciating the grace that God extends to His people.

How can we apply Psalms 85:2 in our daily lives?

We can apply Psalms 85:2 by embracing God's forgiveness in our own lives. Acknowledging our mistakes and seeking His mercy allows us to experience true restoration. Additionally, this verse encourages us to extend grace to others, mirroring the forgiveness we receive from God.

Book Summary

The Book of Psalms

Psalm 1: Two Paths

This psalm describes two paths. The blessed person does not follow the counsel of the ungodly, does not stand in the way of sinners, and does not sit among the scornful. Instead, this person delights in the law of the LORD and thinks on it day and night.

That person is compared to a tree planted by streams of water that produces fruit in season and keeps its leaf from withering, and their way prospers. The ungodly are not like that; they are like chaff driven by the wind. The psalm ends by saying the ungodly do not stand in the judgment or remain among the righteous, because the LORD knows the way of the righteous, but the way of the ungodly perishes. Psalm 2: The Anointed King This psalm speaks about nations and rulers stirring up unrest and setting themselves against the LORD and against his Anointed. They speak as if they can break free from God's rule, as though his bonds can be thrown off. The LORD who sits in the heavens responds with scorn and speaks in his wrath. He declares his king set upon Zion, and the Anointed speaks of the decree: he is called the Son and is given the nations for an inheritance. The psalm warns kings and judges to be wise, to serve the LORD with fear, and to rejoice with trembling, ending with a call to honor the Son and a statement that blessed are all who trust in him. Psalm 3: A Psalm of David (Fleeing from Absalom) A Psalm of David, when he flees from Absalom his son. David speaks of many enemies rising up against him and many voices saying there is no help for him in God. He describes pressure on every side and the shame those words bring. David then speaks directly of the LORD as his shield, his glory, and the one who lifts up his head. He says he cries to the LORD and receives an answer from God's holy hill, and he lies down and sleeps because the LORD sustains him. He says he is not afraid though tens of thousands set themselves against him, and he calls on the LORD to arise, asking for deliverance and blessing for God's people.

Premium

Unlock the full Psalms summary

Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.

The complete summary of Psalms — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 150 chapters.

What you get

Every chapter of Psalms summarized in clear, modern English

How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points

Permanent access — read anytime, on any device

Best Value

Best value • Save over 90%

One-time purchase • Access anytime

ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.

Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.

← Verse 1 Verse 3 →