Psalms, Chapter 23
1A psalm of David.
I
The LORD is my shepherd;*
there is nothing I lack.a
2In green pastures he makes me lie down;
to still waters he leads me;
3bhe restores my soul.
He guides me along right paths*
for the sake of his name.
4Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,c
I will fear no evil, for you are with me;
your rod and your staff comfort me.
II
5*You set a table before me
in front of my enemies;*
You anoint my head with oil;*d
my cup overflows.e
6Indeed, goodness and mercy* will pursue me
all the days of my life;
I will dwell in the house of the LORDf
for endless days.
* [Psalm 23] God's loving care for the psalmist is portrayed under the figures of a shepherd for the flock (Ps 23:1–4) and a host's generosity toward a guest (Ps 23:5–6). The imagery of both sections is drawn from traditions of the exodus (Is 40:11; 49:10; Jer 31:10).