Psalms 32:1-2

1 1Blessed is the one whose 2transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered.
2 Blessed is the man against whom the LORD 3counts no iniquity, and in whose spirit 4there is no deceit.

Psalms 32:1-2 Meaning and Commentary

INTRODUCTION TO PSALM 32

\\<<[A Psalm], of David, Maschil>>\\. This is the first of the psalms that bears this title: some think it is the name of a musical instrument, on which this psalm was sung; others the first word of a song, to the tune of which it was sung, as Aben Ezra; some say it is so called, because it was explained by an interpreter, as Jarchi; and the Rabbins {k} say, that every psalm that is called "Maschil" was dictated by an interpreter: the Targum renders it "a good understanding"; and the word properly signifies "instruction", or "causing to understand" {l}; and it may be the apostle has some reference to this title in 1Co 14:15; It is an instructive psalm; a didascalic ode, as Junius renders it: it gives an account how the psalmist was instructed under a dispensation of Providence; and was brought to a sense of sin, and acknowledgment of it; and was favoured with a discovery of pardoning grace; and in it he takes upon him to instruct others, Ps 32:8,9, and does instruct in the doctrine of the pardon of sin by the grace of God. {k} Elias Levita in Tishbi, p. 271. {l} lykvm "erudiens", Musculus, Munster, Vatablus, Montanus; "informans", Gejerus; "an instructing psalm", Ainsworth.

Cross References 4

  • 1. Cited Romans 4:7, 8; [Psalms 85:2]
  • 2. [Exodus 34:7; John 1:29]
  • 3. [2 Corinthians 5:19]
  • 4. John 1:47
The English Standard Version is published with the permission of Good News Publishers.