Psalms 23: context and explanation
BibleMio editorial notes, prepared with AI assistance. These notes are not part of the biblical text.
Psalms 23:1–6
English — World English Bible
Read the full chapter1 A Psalm by David. The LORD 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 the LORD’s house forever.
Context
Psalm 23 is a poem of trust. It begins with a shepherd who leads and restores, then describes a dark, dangerous path. The closing verses turn to a prepared table and hospitality in the Lord’s house. Read all six verses together rather than the opening sentence alone.
Reading the passage
Food, rest and guidance express the speaker’s trust. In the valley the speaker addresses God directly as “you”. The table is prepared in the presence of adversaries, so opposition has not vanished. The poem voices trust amid danger.
What the passage does not say
It does not guarantee wealth, physical safety or freedom from grief. Its poetic images are not a timetable of future events. Translations can differ in their wording for the dark valley and the length of the stay in the Lord’s house.
For reflection
How does the way of addressing God change in verse 4?