Transgression

In the biblical context, "transgression" refers to the act of violating a command or law, particularly the divine law set forth by God. The term is often used to describe a willful or deliberate act of disobedience against God's commandments. In Hebrew, the word for transgression is "pesha," which conveys the idea of rebellion or revolt against authority.

The Bible frequently addresses the concept of transgression, emphasizing its seriousness and the need for repentance. In the Old Testament, transgressions are often linked with the breaking of the covenant between God and His people. For instance, in Isaiah 53:5 , it is written, "But He was pierced for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon Him, and by His stripes we are healed." This passage highlights the redemptive work of the Messiah, who bears the consequences of human transgressions.

In the New Testament, transgression continues to be a significant theme. Romans 4:15 states, "For the law brings wrath. And where there is no law, there is no transgression." This verse underscores the relationship between the law and transgression, indicating that the law defines what constitutes a transgression.

Iniquity

"Iniquity" is another term used in the Bible to describe sin, but it carries a slightly different connotation than transgression. The Hebrew word for iniquity is "avon," which implies a distortion or perversion of what is right. Iniquity refers to the inherent moral corruption and the sinful nature that leads individuals to commit acts of sin.

The Bible often uses the term iniquity to describe the deep-seated nature of sin that affects the heart and character of individuals. In Psalm 51:2 , King David pleads, "Wash me clean of my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin." Here, David acknowledges the pervasive nature of iniquity and his need for divine cleansing.

Iniquity is also associated with the consequences of sin, as seen in Exodus 34:7 , where God declares, "maintaining loving devotion to a thousand generations, forgiving iniquity, transgression, and sin. Yet He will by no means leave the guilty unpunished, visiting the iniquity of the fathers on their children and grandchildren to the third and fourth generation." This passage illustrates the generational impact of iniquity and the justice of God in dealing with sin.

In the New Testament, the concept of iniquity is addressed in the context of lawlessness and moral decay. In Matthew 7:23 , Jesus warns, "Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you workers of lawlessness!’" The term "lawlessness" here is often translated as iniquity, highlighting the rejection of God's moral order.

Both transgression and iniquity are central to the biblical understanding of sin, emphasizing the need for repentance, forgiveness, and the transformative power of God's grace through Jesus Christ.