Psalm 23: The good shepherd

This familiar psalm expresses the relationship of the believer to the Lord under two images. The first is that of the sheep and the shepherd.

The second image is the Lord in the temple is presented as the Protector, able to provide abundantly for his people and to preserve them from all danger.

The two images naturally lend themselves to allegorical interpretations.

In the 4th stance the image is of the Bedouin law of hospitality whereby a traveler who has his meal laid out for him in a Bedouin tent is guaranteed immunity from all enemies. The psalmist is saying that in Yahweh’s tent he finds a welcoming and protective welcome.

It is thought that this psalm was sung in a procession carrying the Ark of the Covenant back into the temple after it had been carried out to battle for other reasons.

Although we do not know what the future holds we do know who holds the future.

Psalm 23 The Lord is my shepherd; I have everything I need.

The Lord is my shepherd; I have everything I need. He lets me rest in fields of green grass and leads me to quiet pools of fresh water.

He gives me new strength. He guides me in the right paths, as he has promised.

Even if I go through the deepest darkness, I will not be afraid, Lord, for you are with me. Your shepherd’s rod and staff protect me.

You prepare a banquet for me, where all my enemies can see me: you welcome me as an honored guest and fill my cup to the brim.

I know that your goodness and love will be with me all my life; and your house will be my home as long as I live.