Contrite Heart

In the Bible, a "contrite heart" refers to a state of deep remorse and humility, particularly in the context of repentance before God. The term "contrite" comes from the Hebrew word "dakkah," which means to be crushed or broken. This condition of the heart signifies an acknowledgment of sin and a sincere desire for reconciliation with God. Psalm 51:17 emphasizes this concept, stating, "The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise." Here, the psalmist David expresses that genuine repentance is more valuable to God than ritual sacrifices.Additionally, Isaiah 57:15 affirms the significance of a contrite heart, where God declares, "For thus says the One who is high and lifted up, who inhabits eternity, whose name is Holy: ‘I dwell in the high and holy place, and also with him who is of a contrite and lowly spirit, to revive the spirit of the lowly, and to revive the heart of the contrite.’" This verse illustrates that God is close to those who exhibit humility and brokenness, promising restoration and renewal. Therefore, a contrite heart is not only an acknowledgment of one's faults but also a posture that invites divine grace and transformation.

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