Psalms 66:15 (KJV)

What does Psalms 66:15 mean?

Psalms 66:15 describes the psalmist’s intention to offer God a variety of animal sacrifices, including fattened animals, rams with incense, bulls, and goats. The verse expresses a desire to give God the best and most abundant offerings as an act of worship and gratitude.

In this verse, the speaker (traditionally understood as the psalmist, possibly David) is addressing God directly, promising to bring significant sacrifices to the temple. The mention of different animals and incense highlights both the richness and the seriousness of the offerings. The word "Selah" at the end signals a pause, inviting the listener to reflect on the meaning and weight of this promise.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 66:15

• "offer" (עָלָה, ‘alah): This word often means "to go up" or "to ascend," and in the context of sacrifices, it refers to bringing something up to the altar, emphasizing the act of presenting something to God.
• "sacrifices" (עֹלָה, ‘olah): This is the word for burnt offerings, sacrifices that were completely burned on the altar, symbolizing total dedication to God.
• "fatlings" (מִדֵּין, middeyn): This term refers to well-fed or fattened animals, suggesting that the offerings are the choicest and most valuable.
• "incense" (קְטֹרֶת, qetoreth): Incense was burned with some sacrifices, adding a pleasing aroma, which in ancient Israelite worship symbolized prayers or devotion rising to God.
• "Selah" (סֶלָה, selah): This word’s exact meaning is uncertain, but it is often understood as a musical or liturgical pause, encouraging reflection.

Why Psalms 66:15 matters

• This verse clears up the idea that worship in ancient Israel was only about words or songs; it shows that costly, material offerings were a central part of expressing devotion and thanks to God.
• The variety and quality of sacrifices mentioned underline the psalmist’s seriousness and gratitude, connecting the verse to the broader theme of responding to God’s deliverance and blessings in the surrounding psalm.
• The use of "Selah" invites readers to pause and consider the significance of wholehearted worship, making the verse not just a statement but a moment for reflection.