Psalms 23:1

Authorized King James Version

The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
יְהוָ֥ה
H3068
The LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#2
רֹ֝עִ֗י
H7462
is my shepherd
to tend a flock; i.e., pasture it; intransitively, to graze (literally or figuratively); generally to rule; by extension, to associate with (as a frie
#3
לֹ֣א
H3808
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#4
אֶחְסָֽר׃
H2637
I shall not want
to lack; by implication, to fail, want, lessen

Cross References

Related verses that illuminate this passage (hover to preview):

Analysis

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. This opening declaration establishes both the fundamental relationship (Lord as shepherd, believer as sheep) and its primary consequence (complete sufficiency). The Hebrew word for "Lord" here is Yahweh (יהוה), the covenant name of God, emphasizing not just divine power but divine faithfulness to His promises.

The metaphor of God as shepherd was deeply rooted in Hebrew thought and ancient Near Eastern royal ideology. Kings were often called shepherds of their people (Ezekiel 34:1-10). David, himself a shepherd before becoming king, understood both the tender care and protective authority required. The verb "shepherd" (ra'ah, רעה) implies not passive watching but active guidance, protection, and provision.

The phrase "I shall not want" (lo echsar, לא אחסר) uses a strong Hebrew negative, meaning "I shall certainly not lack." This isn't a promise of luxury but of sufficiency—every true need will be met. The psalmist's confidence rests not in circumstances but in the character and commitment of his divine Shepherd.

Historical Context

Psalm 23 likely originates from David's experience as both shepherd and king. Archaeological evidence reveals that shepherding in ancient Palestine required constant vigilance against predators (lions, bears, wolves) and environmental dangers (cliffs, sudden storms, poisonous plants). Shepherds risked their lives for their flocks, often sleeping in caves or under stars to guard against night attacks.

The psalm's imagery would have resonated powerfully with David's original audience, many of whom lived in pastoral settings. The metaphor also connected to Israel's understanding of God's relationship with the nation—He had shepherded them out of Egypt, through the wilderness, and into the Promised Land. Royal psalms often used shepherd imagery to describe ideal kingship (Psalm 78:70-72).

For exiled or oppressed Israelites in later periods, this psalm provided comfort by affirming God's continued care despite apparent abandonment. The shepherd metaphor assured them that their divine King remained attentive to their needs even in foreign lands.

Questions for Reflection