Psalms 50:9
I will take no bullock out of thy house, nor he goats out of thy folds.
Original Language Analysis
לֹא
H3808
לֹא
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
1 of 6
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
מִבֵּיתְךָ֣
out of thy house
H1004
מִבֵּיתְךָ֣
out of thy house
Strong's:
H1004
Word #:
3 of 6
a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)
פָ֑ר
no bullock
H6499
פָ֑ר
no bullock
Strong's:
H6499
Word #:
4 of 6
a bullock (apparently as breaking forth in wild strength, or perhaps as dividing the hoof)
Historical Context
Pagan worship often conceived gods as actually needing food and sustenance. Israel's God owns everything already; sacrifices express relationship, not supply divine needs.
Questions for Reflection
- How does this verse challenge transactional views of worship?
- What does God's not 'taking' from us suggest about the nature of true offering?
Analysis & Commentary
God's needlessness: 'I will take no bullock out of thy house, nor he goats out of thy folds.' God does not require Israel's animals as if He lacked resources. The possessive pronouns ('thy house,' 'thy folds') emphasize that the animals belong to the worshiper, not originally to God who needs nothing.