What does a clean heart mean in the Bible?

In Scripture, a clean heart is more than mere outward behavior; it symbolizes a heart purified by God's grace. As Asaph notes in Psalm 73:1, God is good to those of a clean heart. This cleanliness is ultimately secured through Christ's atoning work, which removes sin and guilt from believers. It emphasizes that no one can achieve purity through their deeds alone but must rely on Jesus, who makes us pure. The Apostle Paul echoes this in Romans, reminding us that we have been justified and reconciled to God, enabling us to approach Him with clean hands and a pure heart through faith.