Which of David's psalm groupings is labeled The Sinner Psalms?

• A. The Shepherd Psalms
• B. The Sinner Psalms
• C. The Suffering Psalms
• D. The Satisfied Psalms

Answer: (B)

The label The Sinner Psalms identifies a set of Davidic psalms whose focus is confession and penitence. These psalms center on acknowledging sin, feeling guilt, and pleading for mercy and cleansing from God. A quintessential example is Psalm 51, where David openly confesses his sin, asks for forgiveness, and pleads for a pure heart. Psalm 32 also fits this theme, highlighting the blessing of forgiveness and the relief that comes from confessing sin.

This is why the grouping is called The Sinner Psalms—the emphasis is on personal sin, repentance, and seeking God’s mercy. The other groupings focus on different ideas: the Shepherd Psalms present God as a guiding shepherd; the Suffering Psalms deal with distress and lament; the Satisfied Psalms express trust and contentment in God’s provision.