Sin vs. Iniquity vs. Transgression — What's the Difference — In Biblical Context
Sin is missing God's mark; iniquity is twisted, perverse evil from within; transgression is willful crossing of God's known boundary. All require Christ's atonement.
Sin is missing God's mark; iniquity is twisted, perverse evil from within; transgression is willful crossing of God's known boundary. All require Christ's atonement.
"I acknowledged my sin unto thee, and mine iniquity have I not hid. I said, I will confess my transgressions unto the LORD; and thou forgavest the iniquity of my sin." — Psalm 32:5 (KJV)
The Biblical Context
Sin is missing God's mark; iniquity is twisted, perverse evil from within; transgression is willful crossing of God's known boundary. All require Christ's atonement.\n\nScripture sets out the truth plainly. Psalm 32:5 declares: "I acknowledged my sin unto thee, and mine iniquity have I not hid. I said, I will confess my transgressions unto the LORD; and thou forgavest the iniquity of my sin." This is the anchor of the answer.\n\nIsaiah 53:5 confirms and broadens the picture: "But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities." When believers understand the distinction, confusion fades and obedience clarifies. Both ideas are grounded in God's character and meet ultimately in the person and work of Christ.
Where It Sits in Scripture
The core passage for this question, Psalm 32:5, sits inside Psalms 32. To grasp the full meaning, read the surrounding paragraph — the verses before set up the thought, the verses after carry it forward.
"I acknowledged my sin unto thee, and mine iniquity have I not hid. I said, I will confess my transgressions unto the LORD; and thou forgavest the iniquity of my sin."
Supporting Passages
"But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities."
"Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law."
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