Psalm 51:5

§ 1 The text

§ 2 The argument

David identifies himself — the same moral self who is now repenting — as present and possessing a (sinful) human nature from conception. A moral nature belongs to a person; David locates his personal existence at conception, not birth or viability.

§ 3 Context & notes

Supplement. Used to argue personhood from the moment of conception: the 'me' who sins is the 'me' conceived. Theologically about original sin, but the anthropological premise — personal continuity from conception — is the abolitionist point.

§ 4 Themes

personhood at conception human nature moral identity

§ 5 Discussion questions

1. David says 'in sin my mother conceived me.' Can a non-person have a moral nature?
2. Where does David locate the beginning of his own existence?

§ 6 Related