King James Version
Psalms 51:16 in the King James Version says “For thou desirest not sacrifice; else would I give it: thou delightest not in burnt offering. else: or, that I should” — study this verse from Psalms chapter 51 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“For thou desirest not sacrifice; else would I give it: thou delightest not in burnt offering. else: or, that I should”
Psalms 51:16 · KJV
Deliver me from bloodguiltiness, O God, thou God of my salvation: and my tongue shall sing aloud of thy righteousness. bloodguiltiness: Heb. bloods
O Lord, open thou my lips; and my mouth shall shew forth thy praise.
For thou desirest not sacrifice; else would I give it: thou delightest not in burnt offering. else: or, that I should
The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise.
Do good in thy good pleasure unto Zion: build thou the walls of Jerusalem.
KJV Study — Public Domain
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
“For thou desirest”
H2654properly, to incline to; by implication (literally but rarely) to bend; figuratively, to be pleased with, desire
“not sacrifice”
H2077properly, a slaughter, i.e., the flesh of an animal; by implication, a sacrifice (the victim or the act)
“else would I give”
H5414to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
“not in burnt offering”
H5930a step or (collectively, stairs, as ascending); usually a holocaust (as going up in smoke)
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
This verse is found in the book of Psalms. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Psalms 51:16 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to Psalms 51:16 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge