what does the bible say about forgiveness

The Bible teaches that forgiveness is a central and fundamental aspect of Christian faith. It emphasizes that believers should forgive others as God forgives them. Jesus instructs in several passages that forgiveness should be extended generously and repeatedly, for example, "not seven times, but seventy-seven times" (Matthew 18:21-22). Forgiveness is linked to being forgiven by God—forgiving others is necessary for receiving God's forgiveness (Matthew 6:14-15, Mark 11:25). God is portrayed as merciful and forgiving, removing and forgetting sins completely (Psalm 103:12, Isaiah 43:25, Jeremiah 31:34). Believers are called to forgive with kindness, mercy, and without judgment (Ephesians 4:32, Luke 6:37). Even on the cross, Jesus exemplified forgiveness by asking God to forgive those who wronged him (Luke 23:34). Forgiveness is a conscious choice and a divine mandate that brings spiritual renewal, peace, and healing, and is essential for maintaining fellowship with God (Matthew 5:44, Hebrews 8:12). The Bible does not explicitly say "forgive and forget," but teaches that God chooses not to remember our sins after forgiving them, symbolizing complete pardon (Hebrews 10:17, Romans 8:1). In summary, Biblical forgiveness involves embodying God's mercy, forgiving others fully and continually, and accepting God's grace and cleansing of sins as a model for living.