Psalm 23
King James Version · 6 verses
Psalm 23 is a six-verse psalm of trust attributed to David, picturing God first as a shepherd and then as a host. It moves from green pastures and still waters, through the valley of the shadow of death, to a table laid in the presence of enemies. It is probably the best-known psalm in English and is often read at funerals because of verse 4, though most of it is about being led and fed while alive.
1The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
2He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.
3He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
4Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
5Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
6Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.
Key verses in Psalm 23
- Psalm 23:1 — I shall not want is a statement about lack, not desire: with this shepherd, nothing needed goes missing.
- Psalm 23:4 — The valley is walked through, not avoided, and the reason given for not fearing is company rather than safety.
- Psalm 23:5-6 — The image shifts from shepherd to host; goodness and mercy follow — the Hebrew verb is closer to pursue.