Psalms 23:5
Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
Original Language Analysis
תַּעֲרֹ֬ךְ
Thou preparest
H6186
תַּעֲרֹ֬ךְ
Thou preparest
Strong's:
H6186
Word #:
1 of 10
to set in a row, i.e., arrange, put in order (in a very wide variety of applications)
לְפָנַ֨י׀
before
H6440
לְפָנַ֨י׀
before
Strong's:
H6440
Word #:
2 of 10
the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi
נֶ֥גֶד
H5048
נֶ֥גֶד
Strong's:
H5048
Word #:
4 of 10
a front, i.e., part opposite; specifically a counterpart, or mate; usually (adverbial, especially with preposition) over against or before
צֹרְרָ֑י
me in the presence of mine enemies
H6887
צֹרְרָ֑י
me in the presence of mine enemies
Strong's:
H6887
Word #:
5 of 10
to cramp, literally or figuratively, transitive or intransitive
דִּשַּׁ֖נְתָּ
thou anointest
H1878
דִּשַּׁ֖נְתָּ
thou anointest
Strong's:
H1878
Word #:
6 of 10
to be fat; transitively, to fatten (or regard as fat); specifically to anoint; figuratively, to satisfy; to remove (fat) ashes (of sacrifices)
בַשֶּׁ֥מֶן
with oil
H8081
בַשֶּׁ֥מֶן
with oil
Strong's:
H8081
Word #:
7 of 10
grease, especially liquid (as from the olive, often perfumed); figuratively, richness
רֹ֝אשִׁ֗י
my head
H7218
רֹ֝אשִׁ֗י
my head
Strong's:
H7218
Word #:
8 of 10
the head (as most easily shaken), whether literal or figurative (in many applications, of place, time, rank, itc.)
Cross References
Ephesians 3:20Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us,Psalms 92:10But my horn shalt thou exalt like the horn of an unicorn: I shall be anointed with fresh oil.Psalms 45:7Thou lovest righteousness, and hatest wickedness: therefore God, thy God, hath anointed thee with the oil of gladness above thy fellows.Psalms 16:5The LORD is the portion of mine inheritance and of my cup: thou maintainest my lot.Job 36:16Even so would he have removed thee out of the strait into a broad place, where there is no straitness; and that which should be set on thy table should be full of fatness.1 John 2:20But ye have an unction from the Holy One, and ye know all things.1 John 2:27But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him.John 16:22And ye now therefore have sorrow: but I will see you again, and your heart shall rejoice, and your joy no man taketh from you.2 Corinthians 1:21Now he which stablisheth us with you in Christ, and hath anointed us, is God;Psalms 104:15And wine that maketh glad the heart of man, and oil to make his face to shine, and bread which strengtheneth man's heart.
Historical Context
Ancient Middle Eastern hospitality codes provided sanctuary to guests, who could feast in safety even if enemies lurked outside. David experienced such divine protection during his flight from Saul and during his reign. The anointing imagery reflects royal and priestly consecration practices.
Questions for Reflection
- How does God's provision of abundant blessing amid opposition challenge your definition of prosperity?
- In what current 'presence of enemies' (trials, opposition, spiritual warfare) do you need to recognize God's table prepared for you?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The imagery transitions from pastoral to hospitality, depicting God as the generous host who provides abundantly even 'in the presence of mine enemies.' The table fellowship signifies covenant protection and provision. Anointing with oil was a sign of honor and joy in ancient Near Eastern culture, while the overflowing cup represents extravagant blessing beyond mere sufficiency. This verse points forward to the Messianic banquet (Isaiah 25:6) and the Lord's Supper, where Christ hosts His people at His table despite the hostility of the world.