King James Version

What Does Psalms 23:5 Mean?

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

Context

He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.

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.

Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. anointest: Heb. makest fat

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 . for ever: Heb. to length of days

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(5) Such a sudden transition from the figure of the flock to that of a banquet is characteristic of Hebrew poetry. **Preparest**—*i.e., spreadest *or *furnishest, *the usual phrase (Proverbs 9:2; Isaiah 21:5). (For the same figure of the hospitable host applied to God, see Job 36:16; Isaiah 25:6; and the well-known parables in the New Testament.) **In the presence of** **mine enemies.**—We must imagine the banquet spread on some secure mountain height, in sight of the baffled foe, who look on in harmless spite. **My cup runneth over.**—Literally, *My cup is abundant drink. *Cup, in the sense of portion, has already occurred (Psalm 11:6; Psalm 16:5). The LXX. has, “Thine intoxicating cup, how excellent it is;” Vulg. the same, but with “my” instead of “thy.”

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 23:5 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.