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“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.
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“I pray thee, forgive the trespass of thine handmaid.”
Voice: Reported speaker · Abigail
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.
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“Forgive, I pray thee now, the trespass of thy brethren, and their sin;”
Voice: Reported speaker · Joseph’s brothers (message relayed to Joseph)
The request comes after their father’s death, when Joseph’s brothers fear retaliation and appeal directly for forgiveness of the wrong they committed against him.
Source note: Genesis 50:17, King James Version; Joseph’s brothers send a message asking pardon for their earlier wrongdoing against him.
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“If ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses.”
Voice: Reported speaker · Jesus
The emphasis falls on forgiveness that is more than outward compliance: the teaching demands a response rooted in the heart rather than merely performed.
Source note: Matthew 18:35, King James Version; the sentence concludes the parable of the unforgiving servant and returns to forgiveness between people.
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“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.
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“And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.”
Voice: Reported speaker · Jesus
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.