Psalm 23 (World English Bible)
A Psalm by David.
1 Yahweh is my shepherd: I shall lack nothing.
2 He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters.
3 He restores my soul. He guides me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.
4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me. Your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil. My cup runs over.
6 Surely goodness and loving kindness shall follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in Yahweh’s house forever.
Background and Details of Psalm 23
Psalm 23 is one of the most well-known and beloved passages in the Bible. It was written by King David, who had firsthand experience as a shepherd before becoming Israel’s king. This psalm beautifully portrays God as a caring shepherd and a gracious host, providing protection, guidance, and eternal blessings for His people.
Themes in Psalm 23:
- God as the Shepherd: In the ancient Near East, shepherds were responsible for their flock’s safety, nourishment, and well-being. This metaphor reflects God’s role in guiding and providing for His people.
- Provision and Peace: The imagery of green pastures and still waters suggests abundance, rest, and divine care.
- Guidance in Righteousness: God leads His people down the right paths for His name’s sake, meaning His leadership is tied to His faithful character.
- Protection in Hardship: The “valley of the shadow of death” represents trials, danger, and suffering, yet God’s presence removes fear. The “rod and staff” symbolize His guidance and correction.
- Divine Hospitality: The prepared table and overflowing cup illustrate God’s abundant blessings, even in the face of adversity.
- Eternal Dwelling with God: The psalm ends with a promise of God’s goodness and an eternal home in His presence.
Historical and Cultural Context:
In biblical times, shepherding was a common occupation, and kings were often metaphorically described as shepherds of their people. David’s personal experience as a shepherd before his anointing as king made this imagery deeply personal and meaningful. Additionally, the idea of God as a shepherd is echoed throughout Scripture, including in Ezekiel 34 and John 10, where Jesus declares Himself as the Good Shepherd.
Prayer Based on Psalm 23
Heavenly Father, my Shepherd,
I thank You for leading me to places of peace and restoration. You provide for all my needs, and I trust in Your guidance. Even when I walk through dark and difficult times, I will not fear, for You are with me. Your presence is my comfort, and Your love sustains me. You prepare a table of blessing before me, even in the presence of my struggles. My cup overflows with Your goodness. Let Your mercy follow me each day, and may I dwell in Your house forever. Amen.
5 Questions to Test Understanding of Psalm 23
- What does the imagery of Yahweh as a shepherd signify in this psalm?
- What is the significance of “the valley of the shadow of death,” and how does the psalmist respond to it?
- How does God’s role shift in verses 5-6, and what do the table and anointing represent?
- What does the phrase “Surely goodness and loving kindness shall follow me” mean in the context of God’s character?
- How does Psalm 23 connect to Jesus’ teachings in the New Testament?
Is Psalm 23 Referenced in the New Testament?
While Psalm 23 is not directly quoted in the New Testament, its themes are echoed throughout. The most notable reference is in John 10:11-14, where Jesus declares, “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” This aligns with Psalm 23’s depiction of God as the caring and protective shepherd.
Additionally, Revelation 7:16-17 reflects the psalm’s imagery:
“They will never be hungry or thirsty again. The sun won’t beat on them, nor any heat; for the Lamb who is in the midst of the throne shepherds them, and leads them to springs of life-giving waters.” This connects to Psalm 23:2, where God leads His people beside still waters.
Psalm 23’s themes of divine provision, guidance, and eternal dwelling with God are woven throughout the New Testament, reinforcing the idea of Jesus as the fulfillment of the Shepherd’s role.