Psalms 51:17 (KJV)

What does Psalms 51:17 mean?

Psalms 51:17 says that what God truly values is not outward offerings, but an inner attitude of humility and genuine sorrow for wrongdoing. The verse teaches that God will never reject someone who comes to Him with a spirit that is broken and a heart that is truly sorry.

King David is speaking these words after being confronted about his sin. He is praying to God, recognizing that rituals and sacrifices alone are not enough; what matters most is a sincere and humble heart. This verse highlights that God cares more about the state of a person’s heart than about religious actions.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 51:17

• "sacrifices" (זֶבַח, zevach): This word refers to the animal offerings made in the temple. Here, it is used to show that God is looking for something deeper than just ritual acts.
• "broken" (שָׁבַר, shavar): This word means shattered or crushed. It describes a spirit that is humbled and aware of its need for forgiveness.
• "contrite" (דָּכָא, daka): This word means crushed or deeply sorry. It emphasizes a heart that feels the weight of guilt and wants to change.
• "despise" (בָּזָה, bazah): This word means to look down on or reject. The verse assures that God will not turn away someone who comes to Him in true humility.

Why Psalms 51:17 matters

• Psalms 51:17 clears up the misunderstanding that God is mainly interested in outward religious rituals; instead, the verse shows that God values inner honesty and humility.
• The verse connects to the wider passage, where David is repenting and seeking forgiveness, showing that true repentance is about the heart, not just actions.
• This verse emphasizes that no matter how broken or guilty someone feels, God will not reject a person who comes to Him sincerely.