Psalms 23:2
He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.
Original Language Analysis
יַרְבִּיצֵ֑נִי
He maketh me to lie down
H7257
יַרְבִּיצֵ֑נִי
He maketh me to lie down
Strong's:
H7257
Word #:
3 of 7
to crouch (on all four legs folded, like a recumbent animal); by implication, to recline, repose, brood, lurk, imbed
עַל
H5921
עַל
Strong's:
H5921
Word #:
4 of 7
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
Cross References
Revelation 7:17For the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed them, and shall lead them unto living fountains of waters: and God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes.Revelation 22:1And he shewed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb.Psalms 46:4There is a river, the streams whereof shall make glad the city of God, the holy place of the tabernacles of the most High.Revelation 21:6And he said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely.Revelation 22:17And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.Isaiah 30:23Then shall he give the rain of thy seed, that thou shalt sow the ground withal; and bread of the increase of the earth, and it shall be fat and plenteous: in that day shall thy cattle feed in large pastures.Job 34:29When he giveth quietness, who then can make trouble? and when he hideth his face, who then can behold him? whether it be done against a nation, or against a man only:
Historical Context
David, the author, drew from his personal experience as a shepherd in the Judean wilderness where finding adequate pasture and safe water sources required constant vigilance and skill. His intimate knowledge of shepherding informs this theological portrait of God's care.
Questions for Reflection
- What spiritual 'green pastures' is God leading you to that you might be resisting?
- In what areas of anxiety or turmoil do you need to trust the Shepherd to lead you beside still waters?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
The shepherd imagery shifts to God's provision of rest and refreshment through two parallel phrases. 'Green pastures' (literally 'pastures of tender grass') represent abundant provision, while 'still waters' (literally 'waters of rest') suggest peace and safety—sheep fear rushing water. The causative Hebrew verbs emphasize God's active leading and enabling, not passive observation. This verse anticipates Christ's invitation in Matthew 11:28-30 to find rest in Him, the Good Shepherd who gives His life for the sheep.