Psalms 51:17

Psalm 51:17 reveals a profound truth about what God truly values in worship and repentance. It shifts the focus from external ritual to internal spiritual condition, emphasizing that genuine humility and sorrow for sin are more pleasing to Him than any physical offering.

Context of Psalm 51:17

This verse is found within Psalm 51, often known as David's great prayer of confession and repentance. It was penned after his grievous sin with Bathsheba and the murder of Uriah, as recorded in 2 Samuel 11-12. In the preceding verses of Psalm 51, David expresses deep conviction, acknowledging his sin against God (Psalm 51:4) and yearning for purification and restoration. Verse 16 specifically states, "For thou desirest not sacrifice; else would I give it: thou delightest not in burnt offering," setting the stage for verse 17 to declare what God does desire.

Key Themes and Messages

• The Nature of True Sacrifice: Psalm 51:17 redefines "sacrifice." While the Mosaic Law prescribed animal sacrifices for sin, David understands that these rituals are insufficient without a corresponding internal change. God's ultimate desire is not for the blood of animals, but for a spirit broken by sin and a heart contrite in repentance. This sentiment is echoed in other prophetic books, such as Hosea 6:6, which states, "For I desired mercy, and not sacrifice."
• God's Acceptance of Humility: The verse assures us that God will "not despise" (or reject) a broken and contrite heart. This highlights God's compassion and grace towards those who humble themselves before Him. He is not looking for perfection, but for genuine remorse and a willingness to turn from sin.
• Internal Transformation Over External Ritual: This verse underscores the biblical principle that genuine worship and relationship with God are rooted in the heart's condition, not merely in adherence to external religious practices. It anticipates the New Covenant emphasis on God's law written on the heart and spiritual worship (John 4:24).

Linguistic Insights

The KJV phrases "broken spirit" and "contrite heart" convey deep theological meaning:

• "Broken spirit" (Hebrew: ruach nishbarah - רוּחַ נִשְׁבָּרָה): This refers to a spirit that is humbled, crushed, or shattered by the weight of sin and the realization of one's unworthiness before a holy God. It signifies the dismantling of pride and self-sufficiency.
• "Contrite heart" (Hebrew: lev nidkeh - לֵב נִדְכֶּה): The word "contrite" means crushed, bruised, or utterly penitent. It describes a heart that is truly sorrowful for wrongdoing, not merely for the consequences, but for the offense against God. This state of heart is highly valued by God, as also seen in Isaiah 66:2: "but to this man will I look, even to him that is poor and of a contrite spirit, and trembleth at my word."

Practical Application

Psalm 51:17 offers timeless wisdom for believers today:

• Encourages Genuine Repentance: It reminds us that God desires a sincere confession and a heart truly grieved by sin, rather than superficial apologies or religious acts.
• Accessibility to God: Regardless of the depth of our sin, this verse assures us that God's grace is available to those who approach Him with humility and a repentant spirit. He does not turn away the truly remorseful.
• Focus on the Internal: It challenges us to examine our hearts and motives, ensuring that our spiritual practices stem from a genuine desire to please God and walk in His ways, rather than from mere obligation or outward show. It emphasizes that God values our internal state above all else.