Psalm 23/Overview/Background

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  • God is often referred to as the shepherd of his people (e.g., Pss 80:1; 95:7; 100:3; Isa 40:11). However, in Ps 23:1, YHWH is presented as David's personal shepherd; i.e., the one who leads, provides, and protects David.
  • The anointing with a fine, spiced oil was a customary expression of hospitality. Prior to entering the banqueting room, the host would anoint the guest's head with oil (Pss 45:7; 92:10; 133:2; Amos 6:6; Luke 7:46).
  • "You arrange a table" means to set out food and drink for dining.[1] This was a gesture of hospitality (Gen 18:1–8; Exod 2:18–20; Ps 78:19).
  • It was the host's responsibility to provide food, water, and lodging for the guests and their animals.[2] The host was also responsible for providing protection to his guests from all enemies.[3]
  1. ↑ Cf. TWOT; Ross 2011, 566; VanGemeren 2008, 255.
  2. ↑ Cf. DBI 1378; Gen 24:23—25; 26:30; 31:1—33; etc.
  3. ↑ Cf. Briggs and Briggs 1906–1907, 210.