What does the Bible say about a broken and contrite heart?

In Psalm 51:17, the psalmist declares, 'The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit, a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise.' This highlights the importance of humility and repentance before God. Rather than ritualistic sacrifices, which can become mere formalities, the Lord seeks genuine contrition and a heart willing to turn from sin. A broken and contrite heart is one that acknowledges its sinfulness and seeks God's mercy, showing true understanding of one's need for salvation through Christ.