Iniquity
Category
Sin & Human Condition
Biblical Definition
Moral crookedness or perversity, often stressing the twisted nature of sin and the guilt that attends it.
Origin(s)
Hebrew: עָוֹן
Transliteration
ʿāwōn / ʿāvon
Literal meaning
perversity, crookedness, guilt
Key Scripture(s)
Exodus 34:7; Psalm 32:5; Psalm 51:2; Isaiah 53:6,11; Micah 7:18-19
Theological Significance
Iniquity highlights that sin is not only lawbreaking but inward distortion. It also frequently carries the sense of guilt and liability, showing how deeply sin affects both heart and standing before God.
Common Misunderstanding(s)
Iniquity is not just a stronger synonym for sin without nuance. Scripture often uses it to underscore twistedness and the burden or consequence of guilt.
Practical Application
The language of iniquity encourages honest confession of inward corruption and thankful trust that God both forgives and cleanses what is deeply bent.