King James Version
What Does Psalms 23:2 Mean?
“He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. green: Heb. pastures of tender grass still: Heb. waters of quietness”
Context
1
A Psalm of David. The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
2
He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. green: Heb. pastures of tender grass still: Heb. waters of quietness
3
He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
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.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(2) The verbs in these verses are not to be understood as futures, but as presents, describing the customary condition of the poet. “The psalmist describes himself as one of Jehovah’s flock, safe under His care, absolved from all anxieties by the sense of this protection, and gaining from this confidence of safety the leisure to enjoy, without satiety, all the simple pleasures which make up life—the freshness of the meadow, the coolness of the stream. It is the most complete picture of happiness that ever was or can be drawn. It represents that state of mind for which all alike sigh, and the want of which makes life a failure to most; it represents that heaven which is everywhere if we could but enter it, and yet almost nowhere because so few of us can” (*Ecce Homo, *5, 6).
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Psalms. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Psalms 23:2 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Psalms 23:2
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge