What does it mean to have a 'broken spirit' according to the Bible?

'A broken spirit' in the biblical context, especially in Psalm 51, represents a state of humility and recognition of one's own shortcomings and need for God's grace. David acknowledges that sacrifices and offerings are not what please God; rather, it is a broken and contrite heart that He desires. This speaks to the essence of truly understanding our sinfulness and our dependence on God's mercy to be saved, reinforcing the historic Reformed perspective that salvation is entirely the work of God, not of ourselves.