David's conscience troubles him after the census has been completed, and he confesses to God that he has sinned greatly in doing this thing. David's confession reveals that his conscience has been awakened to the gravity of his transgression and that he recognizes the incompatibility between his action and his covenant relationship with God. The use of "greatly" emphasizes the severity of the sin in David's own assessment, suggesting that he understands the census to represent a comprehensive failure of faith and trust. The confession comes after the deed is completed, indicating that David initially lacked insight into the transgression but has subsequently been granted understanding through his conscience. The immediacy and sincerity of David's confession demonstrate his capacity for repentance and his acknowledgment of his subordination to divine authority, even as a king.

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