Psalm 23 kjv meaning: The Lord is My Shepherd

Thank you for choosing Psalm Shop, the best place to find inspiring and uplifting Psalms for your daily life. In this article, I will share one of my favorite Psalms, Psalm 23, and how it can help you find peace and comfort in any situation. Psalm 23 is one of the most well-known and beloved Psalms in the Bible. It is a short but powerful Psalm that has brought comfort and hope to millions of people throughout the centuries. The Psalm is often recited at funerals, but its message is not just about death and dying. It is a beautiful expression of faith and trust in God, and a reminder of the peace and security that comes from having a personal relationship with Him. The philosophy of Psalm 23 is centered around the idea that God is our shepherd and we are His sheep. This metaphor is used throughout the Bible to describe the relationship between God and His people. As a shepherd, God provides for and protects His sheep, guiding them along the path of righteousness and restoring them when they are weary or wounded. As sheep, we depend on God for our every need, and we follow Him wherever He leads us.   This page may contain affiliate links for products designed by me, and/or services I recommend. If you make a purchase through these links, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a small commission.  

Let’s take a closer look at each verse of Psalm 23 and see what it means for us today.

Verse 1: “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.”

This verse is a powerful declaration of faith and trust in God. The image of God as a shepherd is a common one in the Bible, and it speaks to God’s care and protection for his people. When we say that “the Lord is my shepherd,” we are acknowledging that God is our provider and protector, and that we trust him to take care of us. The word “shepherd” in Hebrew is “rohi,” which means “to feed, to lead, or to rule.” A shepherd’s job was to feed his flock, lead them to green pastures and still waters, protect them from predators and thieves, and rescue them when they were lost or injured. A shepherd knew his sheep by name, and his sheep knew his voice. A shepherd was willing to risk his life for his sheep, as Jesus did for us on the cross. The word “want” in Hebrew is “chaser,” which means “to lack, to be without, or to fail.” When we say that “I shall not want,” we are saying that we have everything we need in God, and that nothing can separate us from His love. We are saying that we are content with what God has given us, and that we do not seek after worldly things that cannot satisfy us.

Some questions to reflect on this verse are:

• Do you believe that God is your shepherd?
• Do you trust Him to provide for your needs?
• Do you listen to His voice and follow His guidance?
• Are you content with what God has given you?
• What are some things that you want but do not need?

Verse 2: “He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.”

This verse paints a beautiful picture of rest and refreshment. The image of lying down in green pastures and being led beside still waters is one of peace and tranquility. It speaks to God’s desire to give us rest and renewal, even in the midst of difficult circumstances. The word “maketh” in Hebrew is “rabats,” which means “to stretch oneself out, to lie down, or to crouch.” A shepherd would make his sheep lie down in green pastures when they were tired or hungry. He would also make sure that they had enough water to drink, by leading them to streams or wells that were calm and clear. A sheep would not lie down unless it felt safe and secure, so this verse also implies that God protects us from harm. The word “green” in Hebrew is “deshe,” which means “tender grass or sprout.” Green pastures were a sign of abundance and fertility, as well as a source of nourishment for the sheep. Green pastures also symbolize the blessings and promises of God, as He said to Moses: “I will give you every place where you set your foot, as I promised Moses. Your territory will extend from the desert to Lebanon, and from the great river, the Euphrates—all the Hittite country—to the Mediterranean Sea in the west.” (Joshua 1:3-4) The word “still” in Hebrew is “menuchah,” which means “resting place or quietness.” Still waters were essential for the sheep’s survival, as they could not drink from turbulent or polluted waters. Still waters also symbolize the peace and joy that God gives us, as He said through Isaiah: “You will go out in joy and be led forth in peace; the mountains and hills will burst into song before you, and all the trees of the field will clap their hands.” (Isaiah 55:12)

Some questions to reflect on this verse are:

• Do you find rest and refreshment in God?
• Do you allow Him to lead you to green pastures and still waters?
• Do you enjoy the blessings and promises of God?
• Do you experience the peace and joy of God?

Verse 3: “He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.”

This verse speaks to God’s desire to restore us when we are broken or hurting. The word “restoreth” implies that something has been lost or damaged, but that it can be made whole again. When we are feeling lost or broken, God is there to restore our souls and lead us back to wholeness. The word “restoreth” in Hebrew is “shub,” which means “to turn back, to return, or to repent.” A shepherd would restore his sheep when they were wandering or wounded. He would seek them out, bring them back, heal their wounds, and comfort them. A shepherd would also restore his sheep when they were sick or weak. He would feed them, care for them, and strengthen them. A shepherd would also restore his sheep when they were dirty or stained. He would wash them, groom them, and make them clean. The word “soul” in Hebrew is “nephesh,” which means “life, breath, or being.” The soul is the essence of who we are, our personality, emotions, thoughts, and desires. The soul is also the part of us that connects with God, our spirit. The soul can be damaged by sin, pain, trauma, or stress. The soul can also be restored by God’s grace, love, forgiveness, and healing. The word “leadeth” in Hebrew is “nachah,” which means “to guide, to direct, or to govern.” A shepherd would lead his sheep in the paths of righteousness, which were the right ways to go. He would not lead them astray, but he would show them the way to safety and prosperity. He would also teach them the right ways to behave, according to his laws and commands. The word “righteousness” in Hebrew is “tsedeq,” which means “justice, equity, or morality.” Righteousness is the quality of being right with God and with others. It is the result of obeying God’s will and following His standards. It is also the reward of doing what is right and pleasing to God. The phrase “for his name’s sake” means that God does all these things for His own glory and honor. His name represents His character and reputation. He restores us and leads us in righteousness because He is faithful and good. He wants us to reflect His image and share His name with others.

Some questions to reflect on this verse are:

• Do you need God to restore your soul?
• Do you let Him heal your wounds, comfort your pain, and cleanse your sin?
• Do you follow His guidance and direction in your life?
• Do you obey His will and follow His standards?
• Do you live for His glory and honor?

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Verse 4: “Yea, 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.”

This verse is a powerful reminder that even in our darkest moments, God is with us. The image of walking through the valley of the shadow of death is a powerful one, but it is also one that speaks to our human experience. We all go through difficult times in life, but when we know that God is with us, we can face those challenges with courage and hope. The word “walk” in Hebrew is “halak,” which means “to go, to come, or to live.” A shepherd would walk with his sheep through the valley of the shadow of death, which was a dangerous place where predators and enemies could attack. He would not leave them alone, but he would stay close to them and protect them. He would also walk with them through the seasons of life, whether they were good or bad. The word “valley” in Hebrew is “gay,” which means “a low place or a depression.” A valley is a place where the sun does not shine as brightly, where the air is colder, and where the view is limited. A valley is also a place where water flows, where plants grow, and where life can be found. A valley is a place of contrast, where both hardship and blessing can be experienced. The phrase “shadow of death” in Hebrew is “tsalmaveth,” which means “deep darkness or gloom.” The shadow of death is a metaphor for any situation that threatens our life or well-being. It could be a physical illness, an emotional trauma, a spiritual crisis, or a relational conflict. The shadow of death is a place where we feel afraid, alone, or hopeless. The word “fear” in Hebrew is “yare,” which means “to be afraid, to revere, or to respect.” Fear is a natural and normal response to danger or uncertainty. Fear can be helpful when it alerts us to potential harm and motivates us to take action. Fear can also be harmful when it paralyzes us from doing what is right or prevents us from trusting God. The word “evil” in Hebrew is “ra,” which means “bad, wicked, or harmful.” Evil is anything that opposes God’s will and character. Evil can come from within us, such as our sinful nature or our wrong choices. Evil can also come from outside us, such as the devil or his agents. Evil can affect us in various ways, such as causing pain, suffering, or loss. The phrase “thou art with me” means that God is present and active in our lives. He does not abandon us or forsake us when we face trouble or danger. He does not ignore us or forget us when we cry out to Him. He does not distance Himself or hide Himself when we need Him. He is always with us, by His Spirit and by His Word. The word “rod” in Hebrew is “shebet,” which means “a staff, a scepter, or a club.” A shepherd would use his rod as a weapon to defend his sheep from predators and enemies. He would also use his rod as a tool to discipline his sheep when they were disobedient or rebellious. He would also use his rod as a symbol of his authority and power over his flock. The word “staff” in Hebrew is “mishenah,” which means “a support, a prop, or a stay.” A shepherd would use his staff as an instrument to guide his sheep along the right path. He would also use his staff as an aid to rescue his sheep when they were stuck or fallen. He would also use his staff as a sign of his care and compassion for his flock. The word “comfort” in Hebrew is “nacham,” which means “to console, to comfort, or to repent.” Comfort is the feeling of relief and reassurance that comes from knowing that someone cares for us and understands us. Comfort is also the action of helping and encouraging someone who is in distress or sorrow. Comfort is also the result of changing one’s mind or attitude toward something that causes pain or grief.

Some questions to reflect on this verse are:

• Do you walk with God through the valleys of life?
• Do you face the shadows of death with courage and hope?
• Do you trust God to protect you from evil?
• Do you feel God’s presence and activity in your life?
• Do you accept God’s discipline and guidance in your life?
• Do you experience God’s comfort and consolation in your life?

Verse 5: “Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.”

This verse speaks to God’s provision for us even in the midst of difficult circumstances. The image of preparing a table before us in the presence of our enemies is a powerful one, because it implies that even when we are facing opposition or difficulty, God is there to provide for us. The anointing with oil was a sign of honor and blessing in biblical times, and it speaks to God’s desire to bless us abundantly. The word “preparest” in Hebrew is “arak,” which means “to arrange, to order, or to set.” A shepherd would prepare a table for his sheep by clearing the land of stones and thorns, and by spreading a cloth over the ground. He would also prepare a table for his guests by setting the food and drink on the table, and by making sure that everything was ready and in order. The word “table” in Hebrew is “shulchan,” which means “a table, a board, or a slab.” A table was a place where people ate, drank, and fellowshiped. A table was also a place where people made covenants, agreements, or contracts. A table was also a place where people offered sacrifices, gifts, or offerings to God. The phrase “in the presence of mine enemies” means that God does not remove us from the reality of our situation, but He sustains us through it. He does not shield us from the attacks of our enemies, but He shields us from their harm. He does not make us invisible to our enemies, but He makes us invincible to their schemes. The word “anointest” in Hebrew is “dashen,” which means “to make fat, to anoint, or to satisfy.” A shepherd would anoint his sheep with oil to protect them from insects and diseases, and to heal their wounds and bruises. He would also anoint his guests with oil to show them respect and hospitality. He would also anoint his kings and priests with oil to consecrate them for their service. The word “oil” in Hebrew is “shemen,” which means “oil, fat, or richness.” Oil was a valuable and versatile substance in biblical times. It was used for cooking, lighting, medicine, perfume, and cosmetics. It was also used for worship, ceremony, and symbolism. Oil represented the presence and power of the Holy Spirit, the joy and gladness of the Lord, and the favor and grace of God. The word “cup” in Hebrew is “kos,” which means “a cup, a bowl, or a lot.” A cup was a vessel that held liquid, such as water, wine, or oil. A cup was also a symbol of one’s destiny or fate, as determined by God. A cup could be filled with blessing or curse, depending on God’s will. The phrase “runneth over” in Hebrew is “revayah,” which means “saturation or abundance.” It means that God gives us more than we need or can contain. It means that God fills our cup to the brim and beyond. It means that God blesses us exceedingly and abundantly.

Some questions to reflect on this verse are:

• Do you recognize God’s provision for you in your life?
• Do you enjoy God’s fellowship and covenant with you?
• Do you trust God to sustain you through your trials?
• Do you accept God’s anointing and consecration for you?
• Do you appreciate God’s blessing and abundance for you?

Verse 6: “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.”

This final verse is a beautiful declaration of faith and hope. When we say that “surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life,” we are acknowledging that God’s love and grace are always with us. And when we say that “I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever,” we are expressing our hope for eternal life with God. The word “surely” in Hebrew is “ak,” which means “only, surely, or certainly.” It is a word of affirmation and confidence, that expresses our conviction and certainty. It is a word that shows that we have no doubt or hesitation about what we are saying. The word “goodness” in Hebrew is “tob,” which means “good, pleasant, or beneficial.” Goodness is the quality of being good in God’s eyes and in our own. It is the result of doing good deeds and living a good life. It is also the reward of receiving good things from God and others. The word “mercy” in Hebrew is “chesed,” which means “kindness, loyalty, or covenant love.” Mercy is the quality of being kind and loyal to God and others. It is the result of keeping our promises and commitments. It is also the reward of receiving kindness and loyalty from God and others. The word “follow” in Hebrew is “radaph,” which means “to pursue, to chase, or to follow after.” It implies a sense of urgency and intensity, that something is not just behind us, but actively seeking us. It also implies a sense of purpose and direction, that something is not just following us randomly, but intentionally leading us. The phrase “all the days of my life” means that God’s goodness and mercy are not just for a moment or a season, but for our entire lifetime. It means that God’s goodness and mercy are not dependent on our circumstances or feelings, but on His character and faithfulness. It means that God’s goodness and mercy are not limited by our mistakes or failures, but by His forgiveness and grace. The word “dwell” in Hebrew is “shakan,” which means “to settle, to abide, or to dwell.” It implies a sense of permanence and stability, that something is not just passing through, but staying put. It also implies a sense of belonging and intimacy, that something is not just living near, but living with. The phrase “the house of the Lord” means the place where God dwells and where His people worship Him. In the Old Testament, it referred to the tabernacle or the temple, where God’s presence was manifested and where His people offered sacrifices and prayers. In the New Testament, it refers to the church or the body of Christ, where God’s Spirit dwells and where His people praise Him and serve Him. The word “forever” in Hebrew is “orek yamim,” which literally means “length of days.” It implies a sense of eternity and infinity, that something has no end or limit. It also implies a sense of quality and quantity, that something is not just long-lasting, but also full and satisfying.

Some questions to reflect on this verse are:

• Do you believe that God’s goodness and mercy are always with you?
• Do you see God’s goodness and mercy in your life?
• Do you share God’s goodness and mercy with others?
• Do you hope for eternal life with God?
• Do you dwell in God’s presence and worship Him?

I hope this blog post has been helpful for you to understand Psalm 23 better. Psalm 23 is a psalm of comfort and universal protection that has brought hope and peace to countless people throughout history. It is a psalm that reveals God’s character as our shepherd, who provides for us, protects us, restores us, leads us, anoints us, and blesses us. It is a psalm that invites us to trust God in every situation, to rest in His presence, to follow His guidance, to face our challenges with courage, to enjoy His provision, and to hope for His eternity.

The chart above shows the popularity of Psalm 23 by search volume, up to 2023.

10 Frequently Asked Questions about Psalm 23:

• What is the meaning of Psalm 23?

  Psalm 23 is a song of gratitude to a loving God in a painful world. David expresses confidence and trust in the Lord by portraying God as a good “Shepherd” who both guides and blesses them. God’s goodness means that they have nothing to fear: whatever happens to them, God will be with them¹.

• Who wrote Psalm 23 and when?

  Psalm 23 was written by David, the second king of Israel and a man after God’s own heart. Most scholars believe that David wrote this psalm in his later years, when he had experienced many trials and victories in his life. However, some suggest that he wrote it in his youth, when he was still a shepherd boy.

• Why is Psalm 23 so popular and comforting?

  Psalm 23 is so popular and comforting because it speaks to the universal human need for security, provision, guidance, restoration, protection, and hope. It also reveals the personal and intimate relationship that God offers to His people, as He cares for them like a shepherd cares for his sheep.

• How can I apply Psalm 23 to my life today?

  You can apply Psalm 23 to your life today by trusting God as your shepherd, who knows you by name and loves you unconditionally. You can also rest in His presence, follow His guidance, face your challenges with courage, enjoy His provision, and hope for His eternity.

• What are the green pastures and still waters in Psalm 23?

  The green pastures and still waters in Psalm 23 are symbols of God’s provision and refreshment for His people. They represent the places where God nourishes, restores, and renews us. They also represent the blessings and promises of God, as He gives us abundant life.

• What is the valley of the shadow of death in Psalm 23?

  The valley of the shadow of death in Psalm 23 is a metaphor for any situation that threatens our life or well-being. It could be a physical illness, an emotional trauma, a spiritual crisis, or a relational conflict. It is a place where we feel afraid, alone, or hopeless.

• What is the rod and staff in Psalm 23?

  The rod and staff in Psalm 23 are instruments that the shepherd uses to care for his sheep. The rod is a weapon that the shepherd uses to defend his sheep from predators and enemies. The staff is a tool that the shepherd uses to guide his sheep along the right path and to rescue them when they are stuck or fallen.

• What is the table in the presence of enemies in Psalm 23?

  The table in the presence of enemies in Psalm 23 is a sign of God’s provision and protection for His people even in the midst of difficult circumstances. It shows that God does not remove us from the reality of our situation, but He sustains us through it. It also shows that God honors and blesses us even when others oppose or despise us.

• What is the anointing with oil in Psalm 23?

  The anointing with oil in Psalm 23 is a symbol of God’s favor and grace for His people. It shows that God respects and welcomes us as His guests. It also shows that God consecrates and empowers us for His service. It also shows that God fills us with joy and satisfaction.

• What is the house of the Lord in Psalm 23?

  The house of the Lord in Psalm 23 is the place where God dwells and where His people worship Him. In the Old Testament, it referred to the Tabernacle or the temple, where God’s presence was manifested and where His people offered sacrifices and prayers. In the New Testament, it refers to the church or the body of Christ, where God’s Spirit dwells and where His people praise Him and serve Him.

If you want to learn more about Psalms in general or other Psalms written by King David himself, check out these links: Psalms Of King David David The Psalmist

Thank you to the following sites I used to help me research this article:

https://www.biblegateway.com/versions/King-James-Version-KJV-Bible/ https://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/  

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