Psalms 40:6

Authorized King James Version

Sacrifice and offering thou didst not desire; mine ears hast thou opened: burnt offering and sin offering hast thou not required.

Word-by-Word Analysis

זֶ֤בַח

H2077

Sacrifice

properly, a slaughter, i.e., the flesh of an animal; by implication, a sacrifice (the victim or the act)

וּמִנְחָ֨ה׀

H4503

and offering

a donation; euphemistically, tribute; specifically a sacrificial offering (usually bloodless and voluntary)

לֹֽא

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

חָפַ֗צְתָּ

H2654

thou didst not desire

properly, to incline to; by implication (literally but rarely) to bend; figuratively, to be pleased with, desire

אָ֭זְנַיִם

H241

mine ears

broadness. i.e., (concrete) the ear (from its form in man)

כָּרִ֣יתָ

H3738

hast thou opened

properly, to dig; figuratively, to plot; generally, to bore or open

לִּ֑י

עוֹלָ֥ה

H5930

burnt offering

a step or (collectively, stairs, as ascending); usually a holocaust (as going up in smoke)

וַ֝חֲטָאָ֗ה

H2401

and sin offering

an offence, or a sacrifice for it

#10

לֹ֣א

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

#11

שָׁאָֽלְתָּ׃

H7592

hast thou not required

to inquire; by implication, to request; by extension, to demand

Analysis

This verse develops the worship and praise theme central to Psalms. The concept of divine revelation reflects the proper human response to God's character and works. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to worship literature expressing the full range of human experience before God, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

The historical context of the monarchic period, particularly David's reign (c. 1000-970 BCE) provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The Israelite monarchy with its temple worship, court life, and constant military threats created the liturgical and emotional context for these prayers and praises. The ancient Israelite worship practices and court culture would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Temple archaeology and ancient musical instruments illuminate the liturgical context of Israelite worship.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about worship and praise?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of worship and praise, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of fundamental Christian doctrine?
What practical applications emerge from understanding worship and praise as presented in this verse, particularly in light of contemporary challenges facing the church and individual believers?