A term denoted in the OT by words that mean “send away,” “cover,” “remove,” and “wipe away.” In the NT “send away” is used most often; forgiveness is also communicated by words that mean “loose” (Luke 6:37), “be gracious to” (Luke 7:43; 2Cor 2:7), and “pass over” (Rom 3:25). The OT system of worship provides sacrifices for expiating the guilt of those who have sinned unwittingly or repented of their sins (Lev 4-5). The prophets testify repeatedly that God desires to forgive human sins and asks for repentance (Isa 1:18-19; Hos 12:2-3; Joel 2:13) as a prerequisite for a renewed relationship between God and Israel. The NT continues this tradition of God’s mercy, indicating now that God forgives sins through the death of Jesus (Rom 3:21-26; Rom 4:25; Mark 10:45; Gal 1:4; Acts 13:38). Members of the Christian community are also called to forgive each other’s sins (Matt 18:21-35; Luke 17:3; John 20:23; Jas 5:13-16).
