King James Version
What Does Psalms 51:16 Mean?
“For thou desirest not sacrifice; else would I give it: thou delightest not in burnt offering. else: or, that I should”
Context
14
Deliver me from bloodguiltiness, O God, thou God of my salvation: and my tongue shall sing aloud of thy righteousness. bloodguiltiness: Heb. bloods
15
O Lord, open thou my lips; and my mouth shall shew forth thy praise.
16
For thou desirest not sacrifice; else would I give it: thou delightest not in burnt offering. else: or, that I should
17
The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise.
18
Do good in thy good pleasure unto Zion: build thou the walls of Jerusalem.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(16) **Sacrifice.**—The rabbinical commentators on this verse represent *the penitence *of David as having taken the place of the *sin-offering *prescribed by the Law. In the mouth of an individual, language with such an intention would not have been possible. To the nation exiled and deprived of the legal rites, and by that very deprivation compelled to look beyond their outward form to their inner spirit, the words are most appropriate.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
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.
Theological Significance
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.
Cross-References
Verses related to Psalms 51:16
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge