Psalms 26:6
I will wash mine hands in innocency: so will I compass thine altar, O LORD:
Psalms 26:6 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse, the speaker expresses their intention to approach the altar of the Lord with a heart of innocence. The act of washing hands in innocence symbolizes a purification of intentions and a desire for a clean conscience before God. By committing to this act, the speaker acknowledges the importance of approaching the altar in a state of moral purity and righteousness. The altar is a place of worship and sacrifice, where believers come to offer themselves to God. By expressing their commitment to maintaining innocence, the speaker demonstrates a desire to come before the Lord with a heart free from sin and guilt. This verse emphasizes the importance of approaching God with sincerity and integrity, seeking to worship Him with a pure heart. It serves as a reminder of the need for believers to strive for moral purity and righteousness in their relationship with God.
Theological Overview
The verse "I will wash mine hands in innocency: so will I compass thine altar, O LORD" from Psalm 26:6 highlights the importance of physical actions in worship as a symbol of inner purity and righteousness. The act of washing hands before approaching the altar signifies a ritual purification, emphasizing the need for a clean heart and conscience when coming before God. The word "innocency" carries the connotation of purity and blamelessness, indicating a genuine desire to approach the Lord with sincerity and integrity. The gesture of “compassing thine altar†symbolizes devotion and reverence towards God, underscoring the significance of worship as a sacred act of drawing near to the divine presence. Through this verse, believers are reminded of the spiritual significance of ritual practices and the call to approach God with humility, integrity, and a pure heart.
Psalms 26:6 in other translations
American Standard Version
I will wash my hands in innocency: So will I compass thine altar, O Jehovah;
World English Bible
I will wash my hands in innocence, so I will go about your altar, Yahweh;
Douay-Rheims
He hath exalted me upon a rock: and now he hath lifted up my head above my enemies. I have gone round, and have offered up in his tabernacle a sacrifice of jubilation: I will sing, and recite a psalm to the Lord.
Geneva Bible (1599)
I will wash mine handes in innocencie, O Lord, and compasse thine altar,