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"My transgressions are known to me and my sin is ever before me. Lo, I was begotten in sin,
and my mother conceived me in iniquity." Psalms 51:5,7
In this heart-rending psalm, King David begs Yahveh for forgiveness for his relationship with
Bath-Sheba.
David stated that he was "begotten in sin" meaning that he was born with the character trait of lust, yet, he did
not use it to free himself of guilt. He owned up to his transgression and did not try to absolve himself, accepting full responsibility
for his behavior, even if it came from an inherited trait.
How different it is from the teachings of modern psychology, which so often blames parents and excuses even the
grossest misbehavior by arguing that the person was a victim of early-life experiences and influences that distorted
his values, and should not be held responsible for his behavior.
In this psalm of repentance, King David reminds all of us that we must assume responsibility for our behavior, regardless
of our past.
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