Psalms 51:16

Authorized King James Version

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

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
כִּ֤י׀
H3588
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#2
לֹא
H3808
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#3
תַחְפֹּ֣ץ
H2654
For thou desirest
properly, to incline to; by implication (literally but rarely) to bend; figuratively, to be pleased with, desire
#4
זֶ֣בַח
H2077
not sacrifice
properly, a slaughter, i.e., the flesh of an animal; by implication, a sacrifice (the victim or the act)
#5
וְאֶתֵּ֑נָה
H5414
else would I give
to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
#6
ע֝וֹלָ֗ה
H5930
not in burnt offering
a step or (collectively, stairs, as ascending); usually a holocaust (as going up in smoke)
#7
לֹ֣א
H3808
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#8
תִרְצֶֽה׃
H7521
it thou delightest
to be pleased with; specifically, to satisfy a debt

Analysis

The worship and praise theme here intersects with the broader canonical witness to God's character and purposes. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of progressive revelation that finds its culmination in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's consistent character and purposes.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of ancient Near Eastern poetry and hymnic literature for worship shapes this text's meaning. Israel's liturgical traditions developed through centuries of temple worship and personal devotion Understanding a worldview centered on covenant relationship between God and His people helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection