What does this quote mean?

“To err is human; to forgive, divine.”

Error is treated as ordinary human limitation, while forgiveness requires an additional act of generosity.

Source note: An Essay on Criticism, Part II; Pope warns that shallow learning can produce premature confidence before deeper study tempers judgment.

“To whom ye forgive any thing, I forgive also.”

Paul makes forgiveness reciprocal and communal, showing that restoration can require people to align their response rather than preserve separate grievances.

Source note: 2 Corinthians 2:10, King James Version; Paul continues instructions about forgiving and receiving a person who had caused sorrow.

“And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.”

The prayer links asking for mercy with practicing mercy toward other people, making forgiveness a reciprocal moral discipline rather than a one-sided demand.

Source note: Matthew 6:12 in the King James Version.

“I pray thee, forgive the trespass of thine handmaid.”

Abigail asks pardon while attempting to prevent violence, connecting forgiveness with humility, mediation, and the practical work of interrupting retaliation.

Source note: 1 Samuel 25:28, King James Version; Abigail speaks to David during her appeal intended to avert bloodshed against Nabal’s household.

“Avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath.”

The instruction interrupts retaliation by asking people not to make personal revenge their response to injury, creating room for restraint and release.

Source note: Romans 12:19, King James Version; Paul tells readers not to avenge themselves within a larger sequence about responding to enemies and evil.

“And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any.”

The instruction makes unresolved resentment relevant even in a private act of prayer: a grievance cannot simply be separated from the way a person approaches reconciliation and mercy.

Source note: Mark 11:25 in the King James Version; excerpt from the verse.