David's Confession After the Census

A confession of sin and a plea for mercy.

David confesses wrongdoing and asks that punishment fall on him rather than the people, pleading for mercy after his failure.

Scripture

2 Samuel 24:10

10 David's heart struck him after that he had numbered the people. David said to Yahweh, "I have sinned greatly in that which I have done. But now, Yahweh, put away, I beg you, the iniquity of your servant; for I have done very foolishly."

2 Samuel 24:17

17 David spoke to Yahweh when he saw the angel who struck the people, and said, "Behold, I have sinned, and I have done perversely; but these sheep, what have they done? Please let your hand be against me, and against my father's house."