For the choirmaster.
This phrase indicates that the psalm was intended for public worship and was to be directed by the choirmaster. In ancient Israel, the role of the choirmaster was crucial in leading the congregation in song and worship. This suggests that the themes of repentance and forgiveness in this psalm were meant to be shared and internalized by the community.

A Psalm of David.
David, the second king of Israel, is traditionally credited with composing many of the psalms. His life, marked by both profound faith and significant moral failings, provides a rich backdrop for understanding the depth of his repentance. This psalm is a personal reflection of his relationship with God, showcasing his understanding of divine grace and mercy.

When Nathan the prophet came to him after his adultery with Bathsheba.
This historical context is crucial for understanding the psalm. Nathan's confrontation with David is recorded in 2 Samuel 12, where Nathan uses a parable to reveal David's sin. This moment is pivotal in David's life, leading to his deep repentance. The cultural context of the time viewed adultery as a grave sin, and David's actions had severe consequences, both personally and for his kingdom.

Have mercy on me, O God,
David's plea for mercy reflects his awareness of his sin and his need for divine forgiveness. The Hebrew word for mercy here conveys a deep sense of compassion and loving-kindness. This appeal to God's mercy is a central theme in the Old Testament, where God's character is often described as merciful and gracious.

according to Your loving devotion;
The term "loving devotion" is often translated as "steadfast love" or "covenant faithfulness." It refers to God's unwavering commitment to His people, rooted in the covenant He established with Israel. This phrase underscores the belief that God's mercy is not arbitrary but is based on His faithful character.

according to Your great compassion,
The word "compassion" here emphasizes God's tender mercy and willingness to forgive. It is a reminder of God's empathetic nature, as seen throughout the scriptures, where He is portrayed as a compassionate Father who understands human frailty.

blot out my transgressions.
The imagery of "blotting out" suggests the removal or erasure of sin, akin to wiping a slate clean. This reflects the biblical concept of forgiveness, where God not only forgives but also forgets the sins of those who repent. This idea is echoed in other scriptures, such as Isaiah 43:25, where God promises to remember sins no more. David's request highlights his desire for a restored relationship with God, free from the burden of his past sins.

Wash me clean of my iniquity
This phrase reflects a deep desire for purification and forgiveness. In the biblical context, washing is often associated with ritual purification, as seen in the Levitical laws where priests and individuals had to wash to be ceremonially clean (Leviticus 16:4, 24). The plea for washing indicates an acknowledgment of personal impurity and a need for divine intervention. The term "iniquity" refers to moral corruption and guilt, suggesting a recognition of wrongdoing that separates one from God. This plea is a precursor to the New Testament understanding of spiritual cleansing through the blood of Christ (1 John 1:7), highlighting the need for a savior to remove the stain of sin.

and cleanse me from my sin
The request for cleansing goes beyond physical washing to a spiritual renewal. In the ancient Near Eastern culture, cleansing was not only about physical purity but also about restoring one's relationship with God and the community. The word "sin" here encompasses both the act of wrongdoing and its consequences. This plea for cleansing is echoed in the New Testament, where believers are called to be washed and renewed through the Holy Spirit (Titus 3:5). The concept of cleansing is also prophetic, pointing to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who provides the means for true and complete purification from sin (Hebrews 9:14).

For I know my transgressions
This phrase reflects a deep personal awareness and acknowledgment of sin. In the biblical context, King David is the speaker, and he is expressing his understanding of his own moral failures. This acknowledgment is crucial in the process of repentance, as seen throughout Scripture. The Hebrew word for "know" implies an intimate, personal recognition, suggesting that David is not merely aware of his sins but is deeply convicted by them. This aligns with the biblical principle that true repentance begins with the recognition of one's own sinfulness, as seen in passages like 1 John 1:9, which emphasizes confession as a pathway to forgiveness.

and my sin is always before me.
David's statement here indicates a continual awareness of his sin, suggesting that it is something he cannot escape or ignore. This ongoing consciousness of sin is a common theme in the Psalms, where the psalmists often express a sense of being overwhelmed by their iniquities (Psalm 38:4). The phrase "always before me" suggests that David's sin is ever-present in his mind, perhaps indicating a sense of guilt and shame that accompanies unconfessed sin. This is consistent with the biblical teaching that sin creates a barrier between humanity and God, as seen in Isaiah 59:2. Theologically, this awareness can be seen as a precursor to seeking God's mercy and forgiveness, which is a central theme in the message of the Gospel.

Against You, You only, have I sinned
This phrase emphasizes the personal nature of sin against God. David acknowledges that his sin, though it affected others, is ultimately an offense against God Himself. This reflects the biblical understanding that all sin is a violation of God's holy law (Genesis 39:9, when Joseph resists Potiphar's wife, he states that sinning would be against God). The repetition of "You" underscores the gravity of the offense and the personal relationship between the sinner and God. In the cultural context of ancient Israel, sin was not just a legal or social issue but a spiritual one, affecting one's covenant relationship with God.

and done what is evil in Your sight
David recognizes that his actions are not just mistakes or errors in judgment but are inherently evil. This aligns with the biblical teaching that God is the ultimate judge of what is right and wrong (Isaiah 5:20). The phrase "in Your sight" indicates that God's perspective is the ultimate standard, and nothing is hidden from Him (Hebrews 4:13). This acknowledgment of evil in God's sight is crucial for genuine repentance, as it aligns the sinner's view with God's view of sin.

so that You may be proved right when You speak
Here, David admits that God's judgments are just and righteous. This echoes the theme found in Romans 3:4, where Paul quotes this verse to affirm God's truthfulness and justice. The phrase suggests that God's declarations and judgments are vindicated by the acknowledgment of sin. In the historical context, this reflects the understanding that God's words and actions are always consistent with His character, and human acknowledgment of sin serves to affirm His righteousness.

and blameless when You judge
David concludes by affirming God's blamelessness in His judgments. This is a recognition of God's perfect justice and fairness (Deuteronomy 32:4). In the cultural and historical context of the ancient Near East, kings and judges were often seen as representatives of divine justice. However, unlike human judges, God's judgments are without error or partiality. This phrase underscores the belief that God's judgments are not only right but also beyond reproach, serving as a model for human justice systems.

Surely I was brought forth in iniquity;
This phrase reflects the doctrine of original sin, suggesting that sinfulness is inherent from birth. The psalmist, King David, acknowledges his sinful nature, which aligns with the biblical teaching that all humans inherit a sinful nature due to the fall of Adam and Eve (Genesis 3). This concept is echoed in Romans 5:12, where Paul explains that sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, affecting all humanity. The use of "brought forth" indicates the moment of birth, emphasizing that sinfulness is not just a result of actions but a condition present from the beginning of life.

I was sinful when my mother conceived me.
This part of the verse underscores the idea that sinfulness is present even at conception, reinforcing the depth of human depravity. It highlights the belief that sin is not merely a result of external actions but is an intrinsic part of human nature. This aligns with Job 14:4, which questions how anyone born of a woman can be pure. The reference to conception also points to the need for divine intervention for redemption, foreshadowing the necessity of Jesus Christ's atoning sacrifice. In contrast to human conception in sin, Jesus' conception by the Holy Spirit (Matthew 1:18) signifies His sinless nature, making Him the perfect sacrifice for humanity's sins.

Surely You desire truth in the inmost being;
This phrase emphasizes God's desire for authenticity and integrity at the deepest level of a person's heart. In biblical context, the "inmost being" refers to the core of one's moral and spiritual life. The Hebrew word for "truth" here is "emet," which implies faithfulness, reliability, and sincerity. This aligns with the biblical theme that God values inner purity over outward religious rituals (1 Samuel 16:7). The call for truth in the inmost being reflects the need for genuine repentance and transformation, as seen in David's plea for forgiveness after his sin with Bathsheba (2 Samuel 11-12). This desire for inner truth is echoed in Jesus' teachings, where He emphasizes the importance of the heart's condition over mere external compliance (Matthew 5:8).

You teach me wisdom in the inmost place.
The phrase highlights the divine role in imparting wisdom, which is more than just knowledge; it is the ability to live righteously and make godly decisions. The "inmost place" suggests a deep, personal, and intimate level of understanding that God imparts to those who seek Him. This wisdom is not merely intellectual but is transformative, affecting one's character and actions. The connection to other scriptures, such as Proverbs 2:6, where it states that the Lord gives wisdom, reinforces the idea that true wisdom comes from God. This wisdom is also seen as a type of Christ, who is described as the wisdom of God (1 Corinthians 1:24). The impartation of wisdom in the inmost place signifies a profound internal change, aligning one's heart with God's will, much like the new covenant promise of God writing His law on the hearts of His people (Jeremiah 31:33).

Purify me with hyssop
In ancient Israel, hyssop was a plant used in ceremonial cleansing, particularly in the purification rites described in Leviticus 14:4-7 and Numbers 19:18. It was employed to sprinkle blood or water, symbolizing spiritual cleansing and purification from sin. The use of hyssop in this verse connects to the Passover in Exodus 12:22, where it was used to apply the blood of the lamb to the doorposts, signifying protection and deliverance. This imagery foreshadows the sacrificial work of Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, whose blood purifies believers from sin (John 1:29, Hebrews 9:14).

and I will be clean
The plea for cleansing reflects a deep awareness of sin and the need for divine forgiveness. In the Old Testament, cleanliness was not only a physical state but also a spiritual condition necessary for worship and fellowship with God (Psalm 24:3-4). This phrase underscores the belief that only God can truly cleanse and forgive sin, a theme echoed in 1 John 1:9, where confession leads to purification through Christ's atoning sacrifice.

wash me
The metaphor of washing signifies a thorough cleansing from sin, akin to the ritual washings required for priests and worshippers in the temple (Exodus 30:18-21). This imagery is further developed in the New Testament, where baptism symbolizes the washing away of sins and the believer's new life in Christ (Acts 22:16, Titus 3:5). The request for washing highlights the psalmist's desire for renewal and transformation.

and I will be whiter than snow
Snow, in its purest form, represents absolute purity and innocence. This comparison emphasizes the complete and transformative nature of God's forgiveness. Isaiah 1:18 uses similar imagery to convey the promise of redemption: "Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow." This transformation is ultimately fulfilled in Christ, who presents believers as spotless before God (Ephesians 5:25-27, Revelation 7:14).

Let me hear joy and gladness;
This phrase reflects a deep yearning for restoration and forgiveness. The psalmist, traditionally understood to be King David, seeks the return of divine favor and the inner peace that accompanies it. In the context of Psalm 51, David is repenting after his sin with Bathsheba, as recorded in 2 Samuel 11-12. The plea for "joy and gladness" indicates a desire for the restoration of the relationship with God, which sin has disrupted. Biblically, joy and gladness are often associated with God's presence and blessing (Psalm 16:11, Nehemiah 8:10). Theologically, this reflects the belief that true joy is found in reconciliation with God, a theme echoed in the New Testament through the reconciliation offered by Christ (Romans 5:11).

let the bones You have crushed rejoice.
The imagery of crushed bones is a metaphor for the deep anguish and conviction of sin. In ancient Near Eastern culture, bones were considered the core of one's being, and thus, their crushing symbolizes profound suffering and brokenness. This phrase suggests that the psalmist feels the weight of divine discipline, which is intended to lead to repentance and restoration (Hebrews 12:5-11). The request for these bones to "rejoice" signifies a hope for healing and renewal. This transformation from brokenness to joy is a common biblical theme, seen in passages like Isaiah 61:1-3, where mourning is turned to gladness. Theologically, it prefigures the redemptive work of Christ, who brings healing and restoration to those broken by sin (Isaiah 53:5, 1 Peter 2:24).

Hide Your face from my sins
This phrase reflects a deep desire for divine forgiveness and the removal of guilt. In biblical context, the idea of God "hiding His face" often signifies a withdrawal of favor or presence due to sin (Isaiah 59:2). Here, however, it is a plea for God to not look upon the sins, indicating a request for mercy. The psalmist, traditionally understood to be David, is acutely aware of his transgressions, particularly in light of his sin with Bathsheba (2 Samuel 11-12). The cultural context of ancient Israel placed a strong emphasis on purity and the need for atonement, often through sacrifices. David's plea can be seen as a precursor to the ultimate atonement through Jesus Christ, who bore the sins of humanity, allowing God to "hide His face" from our sins through Christ's sacrifice (Hebrews 9:26).

and blot out all my iniquities
The imagery of "blotting out" suggests the removal or erasure of a record, akin to wiping clean a slate. In ancient times, writing was often done on materials that could be reused, such as papyrus or clay tablets, where text could be erased. This metaphor underscores the psalmist's yearning for complete forgiveness and cleansing. Theologically, this connects to the concept of justification, where God declares a sinner righteous through faith (Romans 5:1). The phrase also echoes the promise of the new covenant, where God declares He will remember sins no more (Jeremiah 31:34). In the broader biblical narrative, this foreshadows the redemptive work of Christ, who through His death and resurrection, provides the means for our iniquities to be blotted out, offering believers a new beginning (Colossians 2:14).

Create in me a clean heart, O God
This phrase is a plea for divine intervention in the transformation of one's inner being. The heart, in biblical terms, often represents the center of human will, emotions, and intellect. In the context of Psalm 51, David is seeking purification after his sin with Bathsheba, acknowledging that only God can cleanse the deep-seated impurity within him. The concept of a "clean heart" is echoed in Ezekiel 36:26, where God promises to give His people a new heart and spirit. This transformation is a precursor to the New Covenant, fulfilled in Christ, who offers cleansing through His sacrifice (Hebrews 10:22).

and renew a right spirit within me
The request for a "right spirit" indicates a desire for steadfastness and moral integrity. The Hebrew word for "right" can also mean "steadfast" or "firm," suggesting a spirit that is unwavering in its devotion to God. This renewal is necessary for maintaining a faithful relationship with God, as seen in the life of David, who despite his failures, sought to realign his spirit with God's will. The renewal of the spirit is a theme found throughout Scripture, such as in Romans 12:2, where believers are called to be transformed by the renewing of their minds. This renewal is ultimately made possible through the work of the Holy Spirit, who empowers believers to live in accordance with God's purposes.

Cast me not away from Your presence;
This plea reflects the deep desire for communion with God, a theme prevalent throughout the Bible. Being in God's presence signifies favor, protection, and blessing. In the Old Testament, God's presence was often associated with the Tabernacle or Temple, where His glory dwelt (Exodus 25:8, 1 Kings 8:10-11). David, the psalmist, understood the gravity of being separated from God, as seen in the consequences faced by Cain (Genesis 4:14) and Israel during their periods of disobedience (Isaiah 59:2). Theologically, this phrase underscores the importance of repentance and the fear of divine abandonment, which is a fate worse than any earthly punishment.

take not Your Holy Spirit from me.
This request highlights the role of the Holy Spirit in the Old Testament, which was given selectively and could be withdrawn, as seen in the life of King Saul (1 Samuel 16:14). David, having witnessed Saul's downfall, earnestly seeks to retain the Spirit's guidance and empowerment. The Holy Spirit's presence was crucial for leadership and fulfilling God's purposes (Judges 6:34, 1 Samuel 10:10). In a broader biblical context, this foreshadows the New Testament promise of the indwelling Holy Spirit for all believers (John 14:16-17, Acts 2:38-39), marking a shift from temporary empowerment to permanent residence. This phrase also typologically points to Jesus Christ, who was anointed with the Spirit without measure (John 3:34) and promised the Spirit's continual presence to His followers.

Restore to me the joy of Your salvation
This phrase reflects a plea for the renewal of spiritual joy and assurance of salvation. The context is King David's repentance after his sin with Bathsheba, highlighting the deep sorrow and loss of joy that sin brings. The "joy of Your salvation" refers to the profound happiness and peace that comes from being in right relationship with God. This joy is not merely emotional but is rooted in the assurance of God's saving grace. The concept of restoration implies that this joy was once present but has been diminished due to sin. Biblically, joy is a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22), and its restoration is a sign of spiritual renewal. Theologically, this request underscores the belief that salvation is a work of God, not man, and that true joy is found in God's presence (Psalm 16:11).

and sustain me with a willing spirit
The request for sustenance with a "willing spirit" indicates a desire for ongoing spiritual strength and a heart inclined towards obedience. The term "willing spirit" suggests a readiness and eagerness to follow God's will, contrasting with the stubbornness or rebellion that leads to sin. This phrase implies a dependence on God for the ability to maintain a faithful and obedient life. In the broader biblical narrative, a willing spirit is essential for true worship and service to God (Psalm 110:3). Theologically, this reflects the transformative work of the Holy Spirit, who empowers believers to live according to God's purposes (Philippians 2:13). The sustaining power of God is a recurring theme in Scripture, emphasizing that human strength is insufficient without divine support (Isaiah 40:31).

Then I will teach transgressors Your ways
This phrase reflects a commitment to instruct others in God's paths after experiencing personal forgiveness and restoration. The psalmist, traditionally identified as David, acknowledges his own transgressions and the transformative power of God's mercy. The act of teaching here implies a deep understanding of God's laws and a personal testimony of His grace. In the historical context, teaching was often done orally, and the psalmist's role as a king would have given him a platform to influence many. This mirrors the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20, where Jesus instructs His followers to teach all nations, emphasizing the continuity of God's desire for His ways to be known.

and sinners will return to You
This phrase highlights the hope and expectation of repentance and reconciliation with God. The use of "return" suggests a restoration of relationship, akin to the prodigal son narrative in Luke 15:11-32, where the wayward son returns to the father. The cultural context of ancient Israel placed a strong emphasis on community and covenant relationship with God, and returning to God was seen as a return to the covenant. This also foreshadows the redemptive work of Christ, who came to call sinners to repentance (Luke 5:32). The psalmist's confidence in God's ability to draw sinners back underscores the transformative power of divine grace and forgiveness.

Deliver me from bloodguilt, O God
This phrase reflects David's deep awareness of his sin, particularly the murder of Uriah the Hittite, as recounted in 2 Samuel 11. Bloodguilt refers to the guilt of shedding innocent blood, a serious offense under Mosaic Law (Numbers 35:33). David's plea for deliverance underscores his understanding that only God can cleanse such a grave sin. This request for deliverance is a recognition of God's justice and mercy, themes prevalent throughout the Psalms.

the God of my salvation
David acknowledges God as the source of his salvation, emphasizing a personal relationship with the divine. This phrase highlights the belief that salvation is not achieved through human effort but is a gift from God. The concept of God as the savior is consistent with the broader biblical narrative, where God repeatedly delivers His people, as seen in the Exodus (Exodus 14:13-14) and throughout the history of Israel. This anticipates the New Testament revelation of Jesus Christ as the ultimate Savior.

and my tongue will sing of Your righteousness
David promises to respond to God's deliverance with praise, indicating a transformation from guilt to gratitude. Singing of God's righteousness suggests a public declaration of God's just and holy nature. This reflects the biblical principle that true repentance leads to worship and testimony. The righteousness of God is a central theme in Scripture, pointing to His faithfulness and justice, and is ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who embodies God's righteousness (Romans 3:21-22). David's vow to sing aligns with the tradition of using music and song as expressions of worship and testimony, as seen throughout the Psalms and in the life of the early church (Ephesians 5:19).

O Lord, open my lips
This phrase is a plea for divine assistance in worship. The psalmist acknowledges that true worship and praise originate from God’s enabling. In the context of Psalm 51, David is seeking restoration after his sin with Bathsheba. The request for God to open his lips signifies a desire for spiritual renewal and the ability to genuinely praise God. This reflects the biblical principle that apart from God, humans can do nothing (John 15:5). The opening of lips is symbolic of the heart's readiness to worship, reminiscent of Isaiah's experience in Isaiah 6:5-7, where his lips are cleansed by a coal from the altar, preparing him to speak for God.

and my mouth will declare Your praise
The declaration of praise is the natural response to God’s forgiveness and mercy. David’s commitment to praise God is a vow to testify of God’s goodness and grace. This reflects the cultural and historical practice of public worship and testimony in ancient Israel, where personal experiences of God’s deliverance were shared within the community. The act of declaring God’s praise is also prophetic, pointing to the ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who perfectly declared the Father’s glory (John 17:4). The psalmist’s desire to praise God aligns with the broader biblical narrative that all creation is intended to glorify God (Psalm 19:1, Revelation 4:11).

For You do not delight in sacrifice
This phrase highlights the heart of God’s desire for genuine repentance over mere ritualistic practices. In the Old Testament, sacrifices were a central part of worship and atonement (Leviticus 1-7). However, this verse emphasizes that God values the sincerity of the heart more than the act of sacrifice itself. This is echoed in 1 Samuel 15:22, where Samuel tells Saul that obedience is better than sacrifice. The prophetic books, such as Hosea 6:6, also stress that God desires mercy and acknowledgment of Him rather than burnt offerings. This reflects a consistent biblical theme that God seeks a relationship with His people, not just religious observance.

or I would bring it
David, the psalmist, acknowledges his willingness to offer sacrifices if that were what God truly desired. This reflects David’s understanding of the sacrificial system and his readiness to comply with it. However, he recognizes that external acts cannot substitute for internal transformation. This sentiment is mirrored in Micah 6:6-8, where the prophet questions what offerings would please God and concludes that God requires justice, mercy, and humility. David’s statement here is a personal admission of his understanding of God’s priorities.

You take no pleasure in burnt offerings
Burnt offerings were a significant part of the sacrificial system, symbolizing atonement and dedication to God (Leviticus 1). Despite their importance, this phrase underscores that God’s pleasure is not in the offerings themselves but in the heart of the worshiper. Isaiah 1:11-17 criticizes the people for their empty rituals, emphasizing that God desires righteousness and justice. This verse foreshadows the New Testament teaching that true worship is in spirit and truth (John 4:23-24). It also points to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who fulfilled the law and the prophets, rendering the old sacrificial system obsolete (Hebrews 10:8-10).

The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit;
In the context of ancient Israel, sacrifices were central to worship and atonement. However, this phrase emphasizes that God values inner transformation over ritualistic offerings. A "broken spirit" signifies humility and repentance, aligning with the prophetic call for genuine devotion (Isaiah 57:15). This reflects the heart of the Law and Prophets, where obedience and love for God surpass mere ceremonial acts (1 Samuel 15:22).

a broken and a contrite heart,
The terms "broken" and "contrite" suggest deep sorrow for sin and a sincere desire for reconciliation with God. This internal posture is essential for true repentance, as seen in the lives of biblical figures like David himself, who authored this psalm after his sin with Bathsheba (2 Samuel 12:13). The emphasis on the heart echoes the Shema (Deuteronomy 6:5), where love for God must be wholehearted.

O God, You will not despise.
This assurance highlights God's readiness to forgive and accept those who come to Him with genuine repentance. It contrasts with the rejection of insincere worship (Isaiah 1:11-17). The promise of acceptance foreshadows the New Testament revelation of grace through Jesus Christ, who embodies God's mercy and offers redemption to all who believe (John 6:37).

In Your good pleasure
This phrase emphasizes the sovereignty and benevolence of God. It reflects the belief that God's will is ultimately for the good of His people. The concept of God's pleasure is seen throughout Scripture, such as in Ephesians 1:5, where God's will is described as being according to His good pleasure. This aligns with the understanding that God's plans are perfect and are executed in His timing and manner.

cause Zion to prosper
Zion is often used as a synonym for Jerusalem, but it also represents the spiritual center of God's people. The prosperity of Zion is a recurring theme in the Bible, symbolizing not just material wealth but spiritual flourishing and divine favor. Isaiah 62:1 speaks of Zion's righteousness shining forth, indicating a holistic prosperity that includes justice and peace. This request for prosperity is a plea for God's blessing and presence among His people.

build up the walls of Jerusalem
The walls of Jerusalem were crucial for the city's defense and symbolized strength and security. Historically, the walls were rebuilt under Nehemiah's leadership after the Babylonian exile, as recorded in the book of Nehemiah. This rebuilding was not just a physical restoration but also a spiritual renewal for the people of Israel. The walls also represent God's protection and the establishment of His kingdom. In a prophetic sense, the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls can be seen as a type of Christ, who is the ultimate protector and restorer of His people, as seen in Ephesians 2:14, where Christ is described as our peace, breaking down the dividing wall of hostility.

Then You will delight in righteous sacrifices
This phrase emphasizes the importance of sincerity and righteousness in worship. In the Old Testament, sacrifices were a central part of religious life, symbolizing atonement and devotion to God. However, God desires not just the ritual but the heart behind it. This aligns with passages like 1 Samuel 15:22, where obedience is valued over sacrifice. The delight in "righteous sacrifices" suggests that God values offerings made with a pure heart and genuine repentance, as seen in the broader context of Psalm 51, which is a psalm of repentance by David after his sin with Bathsheba.

in whole burnt offerings;
Whole burnt offerings were a type of sacrifice where the entire animal was consumed by fire on the altar, symbolizing complete dedication to God. This practice is detailed in Leviticus 1 and was a common form of worship in ancient Israel. The complete consumption of the offering signifies total surrender and devotion to God. This concept is echoed in Romans 12:1, where believers are urged to present their bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God. The burnt offering foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who offered Himself wholly for the sins of humanity.

then bulls will be offered on Your altar.
Bulls were considered valuable and significant offerings, often used in important sacrifices (Exodus 29:10-14). Offering bulls on the altar signifies a return to proper worship and the restoration of the relationship between God and His people. The altar, central to Israelite worship, represents a place of meeting with God, atonement, and covenant renewal. This phrase anticipates a time when true worship will be restored, pointing forward to the New Covenant established through Christ, where believers offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus (1 Peter 2:5).