Psalms 51:16 Made Simple

KJV ORIGINAL

For thou desirest not sacrifice; else would I give it: thou delightest not in burnt offering.

Close to the original. Clear modern English.

✦ MADE SIMPLE

You don't want sacrifices from me; if you did, I would gladly give them. You don't take pleasure in burnt offerings.

⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE

The writer is telling God that he understands God cares more about the heart than religious rituals or ceremonies.

📚 Historical Context

Psalm 51 was written by King David as a prayer of deep repentance after the prophet Nathan confronted him about his adultery with Bathsheba and the murder of her husband. In ancient Israelite society, animal sacrifices and burnt offerings were central to worship and atonement for sins, serving as rituals to maintain a right relationship with God. However, David is emphasizing that God values a sincere heart and true remorse over mere external religious acts.

Explore Similar Verses

Hebrews 10:6

You never actually wanted all those burnt offerings and sin sacrifices.

Hebrews 10:8

So when he said earlier, 'You don't want sacrifices, offerings, burnt offerings, or sin offerings, none of that stuff brings you joy' (and remember, all of those were required by the law),

Leviticus 19:5

And when you bring a peace offering sacrifice to the LORD, you should offer it willingly from your heart.

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📚 Historical Context

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