Psalm 51 – paraphrased in a key line of the Selichot liturgy – is David’s prayer after Nathan the prophet confronted him with the reality of David’s sinful behavior. What is the background to this Psalm, and what can it teach us about the true nature of repentance?

David admitted his sin to Nathan the prophet, and was forgiven; Saul admitted his sin to Samuel the prophet, but still suffered dire consequences. David and Scott discuss the differences between the two situations, and what it can teach us about our own repentance.

Is repentance automatic, or can G-d choose to reject repentance? By investigating the contrasting stories of King David and King Saul, David and Scott offer a fascinating theological insight that can help us all build a more meaningful relationship with G-d.

Although G-d promises to forgive a person who sincerely repents, does that mean that the consequences of sin are erased, as well? Join David and Scott for a discussion about repentance, and the Jewish concept of “Original Consequences.”

According to classic Jewish thought, repentance requires three specific ingredients in order to fully restore our relationship with G-d – one of which is confession. Join David and Scott as they investigate the importance of verbal confession, and discuss what it is and what it is not.

In the Jewish tradition, it’s not enough to ask G-d to forgive us; we also must ask our friends whom we’ve wronged to forgive us, as well. Where do we see this idea in the Bible – and how does it relate to The West Wing? Join David and Scott to find out.